Local photographer writes children's book

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Lafayette photographer Mark Ailor never thought he would write a children's book, but that all changed.

Ailor and his wife, Wendi, adopted their son, Simon, from Ethiopia in April 2010 when he was 18 months old. Ailor said now, at the age of 3 1/2, it's a great time to teach their son about his native country.

Ailor said he didn't want to do it in a traditional way, so he came up with a different idea: write a children's book.

"With kids, we didn't want to sit down and have a serious talk about your adoption story, that would just turn a child off," said Ailor. "We thought the book would spur some conversation, and it has."

The book titled, "Binyam's Big Trip," is about a boy named Binyam who is adopted from Ethiopia by an American family. The parents take him on a trip to Ethiopia where he is able to learn about his country and his heritage.

Ailor said he has had the idea in his head for a couple years, but didn't actually start writing the book until November. Not only did Ailor write the book, he also edited, illustrated and self-published the book.

A book Ailor said hopes teaches an important life lesson to not only his son, but to other adopted children as well.

"These kids can feel a little bit lost knowing whether they're American or Ethiopian," said Ailor. "They're both, and they should be proud to be both."

Ailor said he's happy with the way the book turned out. He said Simon also really enjoys the book and has even started recognizing the similarities between Binyam and himself.

Ailor said he reads the book to Simon frequently, even more than Simon probably likes.

"I've read it to him so many times, I think he's moved on now," said Ailor. "I think he's ready for another book."

As of right now, there are only 100 copies of the book. If you are interested in purchasing the book, you can do so at Barnes and Noble, or at www.anticsofailors.blogspot.com .