Mission Trails Regional Park (MTRP) is the setting of a new children’s book, “Dasha on the Trail,” written and illustrated by first-time author Gwynne Margaret Bruck and published by Sunbelt Publications. The charming story follows Dasha, the author’s rescue dog, as she discovers the animals that live amongst the park’s beautiful chaparral and coastal sage scrub landscape. Bruck’s love for the park and her furry companion can be seen in her illustrations and are sure to capture the hearts of children and dog lovers. Two events have been scheduled for this book. An online first look at the book will be held on Oct. 21 at 1 p.m. as part of the Sunbelt Spotlight lecture series. The Zoom hosted presentation will be free, but attendees must RSVP to secure their place on Eventbrite at /bit.ly/3mlcJh3.

A free reading and signing for the book at Mission Trails Regional Park is scheduled for Nov. 13 at 10 a.m. This event is organized in partnership with the Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation and will be held outdoors in the MTRP Visitor Center amphitheater where the audience can enjoy the sights and sounds of the park. Families with children are encouraged to attend, but please leave your furry friends at home. The book will be available for sale at the event and in the Visitor Center Gift Shop. Masks are required in the Visitor Center, regardless of vaccination status.

The book has been enthusiastically endorsed by San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, who had this to say: “Mission Trails Regional Park is a beloved corner of our city and my favorite place in San Diego. I hope this book inspires others to explore the trails and appreciate the incredible plants and animals that are unique to our region. We’re fortunate to have this kind of natural beauty as San Diego’s backyard.”