Edmonds author Nick Baker has been keeping busy with “two of my favorite things”!

Books and Music.

On Sunday afternoon, Dec. 14, elementary school teachers, grandparents, and young shoppers found Nick at the University Book Store, 4326 University Way N.E., signing his debut storybook, “Turtle.”

“Turtle” details the poignant story of a remarkable young man who overcomes being bullied because his abilities are not fully understood and appreciated by his classmates – until one special day. The main character is the author – Nick Baker.

Nick, who is blind and has autism, teaches children about the effects of bullying in a colorful storybook format. “Turtle” would make an ideal addition to the classroom bookshelf or school library.

His next book signing will be at the University Book Store, Mill Creek branch (15311 Main St.) on Jan. 18, 2015 between 2-4 p.m.

When I first moved to Edmonds, Nick was playing for the dinner crowd at the Shell Creek Restaurant, and that’s where I first learned how musically gifted he is. The restaurant closed a number of years ago, but Nick found other Edmonds-area venues at which to perform and has earned a strong following because of his talent and musical versatility. Rarely do musicians have perfect pitch, but Nick has it – along with the ability to hear lyrics (or a melody) one time and sing, or play, it flawlessly.

Whether it’s the blues, jazz or contemporary music — or anything in between – he has been known to perform it at a variety of Edmonds venues and plays regularly at the Edmonds Senior Center on Mondays and Fridays.

He also gigs at the Easy Monkey Taphouse, 17537 15th Ave. N.E., Shoreline. You’ll find him there on Saturdays, Dec. 20 and Feb. 7 — both dates from 8-10 p.m.

Nick Baker’s book “Turtle” – a perfect Christmas gift – is available to order at Edmonds Bookstore, 111 5th Ave. N.

— By Emily Hill