Johnson County filmmaker, Denny Dey, encourages young audiences to utilize all that the public library has to offer with the second episode feature, MickyMcGee and the Disappearing Book! The 50-minute video will be taped on location at the newly renovated Leawood Pioneer Neighborhood Library; a branch of the Johnson County Library. Sixteen hours of video will be acquired over a four night period in July and August using the talent of regional actors.

Micky McGee And The Disappearing Book casts the main character, portrayed by 12-year-old Colin Arians, into a mystery involving a priceless lost book. In episode one: Micky McGee Hates To Read, Micky was the reluctant reader who cried, “I wish I never had to read another book!” In this episode, Micky has changed from reluctant reader to winner of the Summer Reading Award and member of a band of amateur sleuths.

Dey includes a classic author in each of the Micky McGee features, and brings the celebrated mystery writer Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, played by Scott Shaw, to assist Micky and his companions, Dr. Meanandevil and Simpleton. Toss in a thunder storm, power failure, and two sinister villains and you have the makings of a educational video about the benefits of the library and old-fashioned mystery for young and old book enthusiasts.

“I want to include the great writers in each episode so that young viewers will realize the wonder and importance of these earlier works.” Dey stated. Regional actors have joined the project, many of whom were in the original episode. “Producing a 50 minute feature from 16 hours of work is nearly impossible without outstanding talent on hand. The success of this effort is the result of their collective talent and dedication.”

Cast members included:

Micky McGee – Colin Arians, Overland Park, KS

Dr. Meanandevil – Dean Mehling, Independence, MO

Spirit of the Library – Stephen Howard, Blue Springs, MO

Librarian – Michael Patton, Kansas City, MO

Reading Tutor – Katia Arians, Overland Park, KS

Gypsy – Michelle Mauler, Shawnee, KS

Temporary Librarian – Lesley Mehling, Independence, MO

Sinister Man – Cliff Lawson, Raytown, MO

News Woman – Jessica Marsh, Overland Park, KS

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle – Scott Shaw, Kansas City, MO

Simpleton – John Van Winkle, Kansas City, MO

Micky’s Mom – Jayne Dey, Lenexa, KS

Branch Librarian-Kasey Laine Riley, Overland Park, KS

Camera Guy-Marty Mothersbaugh, Overland Park, KS

Autograph Seeker-Abby Shepherd, Olathe, KS

The Johnson County Library locations will receive free copies of the video to show and check out to the public.