Where are the Totally Ninja Raccoons? Those funny raccoons will be hiding in 25 area businesses for the entire month of August, beginning at 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 1.

From My Shelf Books & Gifts at 7 East Avenue in Wellsboro, the local bookstore owned by author Kevin Coolidge, is hosting the “Where Are the Totally Ninja Raccoons Hunt?” for the fifth year in a row.

The hunt is based on Coolidge’s “Totally Ninja Raccoons” action series for 7- to 10-year-old, reluctant readers. The series is about three raccoon brothers who become ninjas.

The 2024 search for the brothers starts at 10 a.m. on August 1 and ends at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 3, the day after Labor Day. “This event gives both locals and tourists of all ages an opportunity to play for a few more days, compared to when it is held in July,” said Kasey Coolidge, bookstore manager.

“We got behind when Kevin had to have hip replacement surgery coupled with some other unexpected issues so we couldn’t hold the hunt in July. I have contacted the businesses to make sure they can participate in August.”

Each participating business will have free passports, listing all the businesses where searchers can find the Ninja Raccoons. When a customer spots the raccoons, the business will stamp or sign the passport.

To be eligible for prizes, all passports must be turned in at From My Shelf Books & Gifts no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 3.

“Visiting kids sometimes worry about not having time to search at all 25 businesses,” said Kasey. “We reassure them that everyone who plays has a chance to win prizes sponsored by the participating businesses,” she said.

“This year, hunters can also look for Bigfoot for an extra chance to win,” said Kevin. “The first book in the series is about the “Totally Ninja Raccoons finding Bigfoot,” and he’ll be hiding in From My Shelf Books. Find him and get an extra entry.” 

“At each place the Totally Ninja Raccoons are found, the participant’s passport must be signed or stamped in order for his or her tickets to be placed in the prize jar,” said Kasey. “Winners need not be present to win.”

Prizes will be the $100 grand prize and gift certificates donated by all participating businesses. 

For more information, call From My Shelf Books & Gifts at 570-724-5793.