“The Ornaments” is a children’s story inspired by a unique and wonderful gift store tucked away on a side street in New York City. That store, “Domus,” is owned by two caring individuals, Nicki and Luisa, who are featured in the book. After the holidays each year, Nicki and Luisa travel the world, often meeting with craftspeople, artists, and especially women in business. Their travels frequently take them to tiny villages in Europe, Africa, and Asia. When they return with their curated wonders, the shop becomes a “United Nations of Gifts!” Entering “Domus,” you walk under a large willow branch that spreads across the shop’s entire ceiling. From this spreading branch hang dozens of enchanting and charming ornaments that move in a breeze like a Calder mobile. Creating a story for these ornaments was irresistible since the store is so story-like. “The Ornaments” is a story for children and adults, and its message of empathy, inclusion, and community is so urgent in today’s world.
