Bridgeway Elementary third grader pens children's book with television anchor mom

When Bridgeway Elementary School Third-Grader Allex Oelkers lost a tooth last year, she asked her mother, St. Louis FOX 2 television News Anchor Randi Naughton, "What does the Tooth Fairy do with all of those teeth?"

Eight-year-old Allex answered her own question when she determined that the Tooth Fairy uses all the teeth she collects from under the pillows of young children to build a palace, said Naughton. The question ­ and the answer ­ inspired Naughton to co-author the new children's book, "The Tooth Fairy Palace," with her daughter. The book also includes a record of first tooth loss and the Tooth Fairy's Tips for a great smile. Naughton said the book's main character, the Tooth Fairy, was drawn to resemble her daughter.

Both mom and daughter will be signing copies of the book at local bookstores in the near future. Copies can also be ordered by visiting the book's web site at www.toothfairypalace.com. Stellar Press in St. Louis published the book. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book will benefit St. Louis Children's Hospital.