Utica Dad and Author Publishes Book Because ‘Everyone Has A Purpose’

A Utica Dad has published an illustrated book whose main message is "everyone has a purpose".

Dave Dellecese is a man of many talents: he's a dad, an award-winning journalist, a writer of screenplays, news, comic books...and now his new book - "The Little Lamp" - that brings one of his childhood doodles to life to deliver an important message: whatever changes or upheaval in life you're going through, you still matter. You still have a place, a purpose, can be loved, and have love to give.

Dave provided us with the official synopsis of his new book: "Love is the greatest light there is and a small, well-loved table lamp shines brightly on the McShane family for many years. As the household grows, a new, sleek lamp enters the home and the little lamp's bright, loving glow begins to fade from his family's attention. Tossed to the curb, he questions where he belongs and what purpose he now serves, until a kind woman rescues him from the garbage pile."

We asked Dave where he came up with the idea of a lamp to share such an endearing message. "While this story was written while I was an adult, it's title character, The Little Lamp, has actually been with me since elementary school back at the now-closed St. Peter's School in North Utica. I used to draw a lot as a kid, and amid those many crude doodles was an anthropomorphic lamp based on the one my parents had in my bedroom" he shared. "He's been with me a long time. Though he looks a lot better these days under the artistic hand of Ada Konewki, who illustrated the book."

So what's next for Dave? Well, he says he's currently working on his second novel. He is working on several collaborations with local artist Andrew Cieslinski, including an adult comedy called "Holidaze" about a bar where Santa, the Tooth Fairy, and other icons go to commiserate and the suitable-for-all-ages "Lacey & Lily" about a girl and dog who become superheroes.

The Little Lamp is available in Hardcover, Paperback and Amazon Kindle eBook formats from booksellers like Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and others.