If you have little ones or grandchildren, you may already know Conrad Storad, the award-winning author who lives right here in the Valley. His stories stay close to home, highlighting the southwest and Sonoran Desert's stunning array of animal and plant life. This month, he will launch his latest children's book, "Gator, Gator, Second Grader. (Classroom Pet...or Not?)" at the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort located off 16th Street near Northern Avenue.

This free family event will feature a book reading and talk, Coyote Camp crafts and complimentary access to the resort's water park, which covers four acres and includes a sports pool, waterslide and other fun features.

So, what do alligators have to do with second graders? In Storad's latest book, he tells the story of two second graders who decide to take a baby alligator to school. Their action prompts a fantastical safari to take place, which teaches the characters (and young readers) that while some animals are appropriate for school, other creatures belong in different environments.

Bring your children out to the free book launch to hear Storad tell the whole story in person! Then stick around to participate in craft making or wet-and-wild fun at the resort's water park. And don't forget bathing suits!

The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort is located at 7677 N. 16th St. in Phoenix, Ariz.