By Michael Collins, Evening Sun Correspondent

NORWICH – Lifelong Norwich resident, Dennis Gager, has recently seen his longtime dream become a reality with the publication of his first children’s book – “Billy Rabbit’s Halloween Adventure.”

Picked up by French Point Publishing, a Missouri based publishing company, in May of 2014, Gager’s story finally became a full-fledged book in September. Although Gager’s story is now a tangible thing that can be held in one’s hand, looked at, and enjoyed by many, he said that there was a process involved to reach that point.

In regards to “Billy Rabbit’s Halloween Adventure,” Gager said, “I wrote it down probably seven or even eight years ago for my nephew because I really didn’t like what was out there for children’s stories … and after reading it to him on a few occasions, I basically forgot about it.” Luckily, however, Gager did have foresight enough to make sure “Billy Rabbit” was backed up digitally on his computer’s hard drive.

In early 2014, Gager’s wife, Tiffani Beth Gager, happened upon the long forgotten “Billy Rabbit” while she used the couple’s computer. “My wife, Tif, found it and asked what it was,” said Gager, “I told her … and she loved it.”