‘Izzy and the Candy Palace’ launches

On Wednesday night, South Coast Plaza was to celebrate the launch of a new children’s book, “Izzy and the Candy Palace,” which was inspired by Isabel J., a 9-year-old from Newport Coast who wanted to write to help the less fortunate.

Isabel wishes to donate all proceeds to Kid’s Café, a program at the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County. The MMJ Foundation, of Newport Beach, published the book.

The book tells a story of a young girl at a candy palace and her dealings with the candy monster. At the end of the day, it’s a story about having too much of a good thing. Perhaps, when there’s too much candy, the best thing to do is share.

Around 200 people were expected at the launch party at South Coast’s Jewel Court and the author was expected there to sign copies of her book. The book will be sold in the Jewel Court until Dec. 16.

Visit candypalace.com for more information and a peek at the first few pages.

—Joanna Clay