By David Kilby, Special Writer
An 11-year-old received a certificate of appreciation from the township for writing a book about space exploration.
The Township Committee recognized resident Solomon Hailemichael’s aspirations and talents in honor of his book, “Space Exploration for Kids,” at its meeting Aug. 6.
The publication was successfully funded through a Kickstarter campaign and became available yesterday, Aug. 13. Solomon also went door to door in his neighborhood to spread word about his book.
”Most of my neighbors were very surprised by what I had accomplished and many of them gave me cash donations to assist me,” he said.
Solomon was motivated to write “Space Exploration for Kids” to benefit readers.
”Fiction books give awesome stories and put them into your mind so you can have an imagination while nonfiction books, like ‘Space Exploration for Kids’ give out facts so we can learn about our world,” he said.
A letter from the White House on his Twitter page reads, “America needs students like you who are trying hard in school, dreaming big dreams, and improving our communities… I encourage you to continue to put your best effort into everything you do, and please know I expect great things from you.”
He wrote his book to “inform children about the solar system, to encourage kids to read, and to inspire everyone to work hard to improve our world,” he said in his speech at the meeting.
Solomon also illustrated the drawings in the book, mostly in colored pencil.
The back of the book states that Solomon had a severe speech delay for many years throughout his childhood, but that he quickly began studying and reading exponentially. When his parents noticed that he was reading everything that he could find in his home, they quickly filled the house with many more interesting books.
”He possesses extraordinary memorization skills, and is an aspiring actor,” reads the back cover.
”This book was written by a child and for children, to encourage them to read, and to inspire everyone to follow their dreams,” Solomon said. “I want to thank the mayor and the committee for inviting me here, and the parents and supporters for helping to contribute to my book so that the world can be changed in a better way. Thank you again for your time, for listening, and for supporting this very exciting project which began in Plumsted Township.”
Follow Solomon on Twitter at “FindSolomon” or email [email protected] for bookings and engagements.

