Wanamakers General Store, Kempton, was all abuzz Sept. 30 when author Kathy M. Miller and Chippy Chipmunk came to town for a book launch party.

Miller, an award-winning author and photographer, brought along copies of her new book, “Chippy Chipmunk Feels Empathy,”

Through Chippy’s meeting with a special chipmunk, Harriet, Miller teaches the young and young-at-heart lessons on diversity and empathy.

In this newest book, Chippy’s friends, including a blue peacock, show him there is diversity in every species.

“Chippy Chipmunk Feels Empathy,” received a Gold Medal by the Mom’s Choice Awards and the Chippy Chipmunk series, including “Chippy Chipmunk: Parties in the Garden,” “Chippy Chipmunk: Babies in the Garden,” “Chippy Chipmunk: Friends in the Garden,” received 36 national awards.

In 2014, Miller received the “President’s Volunteer Service Award” in recognition and appreciation of her commitment to strengthening the nation and for making a difference through volunteer service.

In 2015, she received the Celebrate Literacy Award from the Northeastern Pennsylvania Reading Association for her contributions to literacy.

Miller graduated summa cum laude from Kutztown University with Bachelor degrees in education and music.

Born and raised in Ottawa, Canada, Miller now lives in New Ringgold.