Chicago Daily Herald
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=113017Idol lights up little girl's lifeWhile she may not call him her boyfriend as much to avoid teasing by her sisters, Mackenzie Johnson still has a bond with an American Idol.
It started when the 6-year-old first saw Ace Young during the show's fifth season.
The bond has grown, including meeting him backstage in concert and playing with him in her hospital room one month before a transplant to help her battle leukemia.
The gifts Young has given the Wauconda girl are something her mom, Amy, is grateful for.
A story, told by Amy, highlighting the impact the show -- and Young -- had on Mackenzie's life is among the featured stories in "Chicken Soup for the American Idol Soul."
"He has been a bright light during a very dark time in her life," she wrote in her story titled "One Simple World."
Serving as co-author of "Chicken Soup for the American Idol Soul" is Debra Poneman. An American Idol fan since the first season, the book features stories shared by top 12 Idols, crew members, fans and judges. Mackenzie's story is one that will touch the heart and build the spirit.
"You have to have a heart of stone not to be touched by her story," she said.
Poneman said Mackenzie has become a superstar, so when plans began for the Chicago-area book signings, Mackenzie was also invited. She will sign books along with American Idol top 10 finalists Gina Glocksen and Jim Verraros, and Poneman.
"When we do the signings for Chicago, we think more people will come out to get her autograph than the Idols," Poneman said.
Read the rest of the article at the link - AceOfDiamonds