Calling all fans of picture books: Local author and illustrator Bill Jarcho, also known by his nom de plume William J. Zambini, will read from his new kids’ book, “Come on Down and Pet the Fish!,” at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 22, at Vashon Library.

“Come on Down and Pet the Fish” is a whimsical and colorful tale that invites readers of all ages to plunge into a tale of curiosity, creativity, and fun. With vibrant artwork, playful storytelling, and funny rhymes, the book is aimed at readers aged 3-103.

It’s Jarcho’s second children’s book in as many years: Just last year, he released “Rhymes and Ditties for Adventurous Kiddies,” which was published, like his new book, by Lisa Horvath at Engaged Learning Press.

The idea for “Come on Down and Pet the Fish” came to Jarcho years ago, he said, when he was visiting a pet shop.

“They had a kiddie pool with Japanese carp that would come up to the surface when they thought they were about to be fed, and I petted them,” he said. “I’ve been pondering this story for over 35 years and last year decided to refine it and bring it to life.”

The book tells the story of Daniel, who ventures into Funzo’s Fabulous Fish Emporium one day, looking for a companion for his lonely pet goldfish. But in the store, he meets other fantastic fishes — including a magic Wish Fish.

With only one wish per customer, Daniel is faced with a big decision: what will he wish for? The suspense builds as he weighs his options between the extraordinary and what his heart truly desires.

For Jarcho, the book is the latest in a life of creative endeavors. He’s worked as an animator, creating videos and other content for Nickelodeon, MTV, and ABC Saturday Morning TV, to name a few. He’s directed episodes of Eddie Murphy’s animated series “The PJs” on Fox TV and created and performed giant puppets and puppet shows for Zambini Brothers.

He has also won numerous awards for his independent animated shorts that have played at animation festivals throughout the world, and written and performed puppet shows for thousands of kids at elementary schools, libraries, and festivals throughout the Pacific Northwest. And he’s a member of Vashon’s VALISE Gallery, where he exhibits his artworks frequently.

“Warped whimsical-land is where I live as an artist and writer,” Jarcho said. “My artwork often has a sense of playful oddness to it and my stories use quirky humor and rhyme to elicit laughter and illuminate the heart.”

Jarcho will sell and sign copies of the book at his reading. The book will also be available at Vashon Bookshop and can also be ordered on amazon.com.