The random coin Fred got in change at the coffee shop was so worn and grimy that he had to rub it vigorously with this thumb, hold it right up to his face, and squint to read the date.

Yep, that’s what he thought: the same year he was born.

John Sheirer is the author of several books for adults and children. His most recent is a book of alphabet poems called, The Alpha Dog Alphabet, featuring photos of his canine coauthor, Libby.