Michigan author hosts book launch at The Detroit Shoppe

TROY — Katharine Mitropoulos, an author and the founder of Set Sail Press LLC, hosted a book launch event for her second book, “Let’s Work Smarter,” Sept. 21.

Mitropoulos earned degrees in psychology, linguistics and speech-language pathology, which led to her working as a speech-language pathologist in schools, but she had always dreamed of being an author.

Her work in the speech-language pathology field, as well as the bedtime stories and dream prompts she told her two children, inspired her to write these stories.

“I love working with children and reading and the time we spend together,” Mitropoulos said.

She formed Set Sail Press and works with illustrator Laura Watson, designer Lindsay Broderick Milversted and editor Brook Vitale. Set Sail Press is an independent, Michigan-based publishing company that aims to promote diversity and inclusion in their publications.

“We’re sticking with juvenile fiction for 3- to 8-year-olds right now,” Mitropoulos said. “Maybe we’ll do middle school books later on.”

Mitropoulos’ first book was “Ready . . . Set . . . Frog!” It aims to use storytelling to teach children about setting boundaries and self-care. Her latest book, “Let’s Work Smarter,” includes lessons in problem solving and setting goals. Both books are a part of the Harmony Lane series that features recurring characters.

Both books can be found through Amazon, and at various local bookstores and shops.

“We want to be in as many local shops as possible,” Mitropoulos said.

The book launch event took place at The Detroit Shoppe in Somerset Collection. The Detroit Shoppe is a nonprofit store and museum that aims to showcase Michigan people, places and products.

Mitropoulos had initially worked with The Detroit Shoppe before with her book, and she organized most of the event for her second book.

“It’s the perfect environment for a fun, lively event,” Erin Berline, store director for The Detroit Shoppe, said. “Her first book had a lot of sales here, and she’s doing really good today.”

Book launch activities included free face painting, cotton candy, crafts, snacks, book readings and signings, as well as raffles and giveaways. The event was sponsored by Better Made, The Detroit Shoppe, and Set Sail Press.

“We wanted our event to connect with the community because the goal of our company is to support the community,” Mitropoulos said. “We love The Detroit Shoppe and wanted to partner with them.”

For more information, visit setsailpress.com.