Quinnipiac teacher publishes first novel

HAMDEN – Kent Golden of Woodbridge, a senior instructor of interactive media and design at Quinnipiac University, recently published his first novel, “Ricky the Time Traveling Trash Panda."

The story follows Ricky the raccoon working through his mission of saving the planet from the impending climate disaster that is brewing with the help of another raccoon, Monique, and a young human girl named Emma.

“On the surface this might seem like just a fun adventure book about a bunch of animals, but it’s actually very deep in terms of the moral messages related to animals and the future of our planet,” Golden said in a statement. “My hope is that when someone reads this story, apart from simply enjoying a fun adventure, it helps them to question their own choices in daily life that impact both animals and the planet.”

Over the years, Golden said he has been considering various techniques to show people different ways of thinking about these issues, and eventually decided to write a book to convey the message of kindness and compassion.

“Habits and societal norms are difficult to break, so simply telling people a bunch of facts about animal welfare, environmental impact and human health is rarely effective,” Golden said. “People don’t like change. But a compelling story can sometimes make a difference to get people thinking differently. My hope is that by experiencing a different viewpoint in the story through the characters and their experiences, readers can see what the alternatives are in their own lives.”

Many of the characters in the books were inspired by actual animals in Golden’s life. Ricky and Monique were raccoons that he and his wife cared for over many years. Their cat, Minka, even makes an appearance.

“Ricky arrived one year at our house and we saw him limping on an injured leg,” recalled Golden. “We thought maybe he was hit by a car, so we took him to the vet to get him checked out. It was actually easier to take Ricky to the vet than it was to take our own cats. He was totally fine with it. Fortunately, he just had stiff joints and needed some physical therapy.”

“Ricky the Time Traveling Trash Panda” is available at major booksellers, including Amazon and Barnes and Noble. attend in-person activities must call ahead at least one day in advance to make an activity reservation. No walk-ins for activities will be allowed at this time.

Seniors attending will be asked to follow the three Ws; Wear a mask. Wash your hands frequently and Watch their distance from others. Additionally, health questions with a temperature screening will be taken when arriving.

According to Rodriguez, the Mini-Lunch dine-in option will not reopen until advised and determined by the Milford Health Department. When the dine-in option reopens, reservations will be required and seating will be limited.

The center has created a small outdoor seating area for members who purchase their meal from curbside and wish to have it outdoors. The center will also be holding a Consignment Store clearance sale outdoors on Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting Oct. 13. The center is also encouraging members to reach out for any additional support. The Center will be holding its annual flu clinic as a drive-through option from 8-11:30 a.m. Oct. 21, by appointment. For information, call John Cornelius at the Center at 203-8775131.

For more information on the reopening and making reservations for activities, visit the Milford Senior Center website: www.milfordctseniorcenter.com or call 203-877-5131

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