Key West's 2008 Hemingway Days celebration is to begin not with a bang, but with a bump — when writer and artist Edward Hemingway introduces his engaging children's picture book, "Bump in the Night."

The youngest grandson of American literary legend Ernest Hemingway, Edward Hemingway is to debut and sign the book during a 5:30-7 p.m. reception Tuesday, July 15, at Key West's landmark Blue Heaven restaurant and bar, 729 Thomas St. The location is particularly meaningful because it's the site of a onetime boxing ring where Ernest Hemingway refereed neighborhood matches when he lived in the island city in the 1930s.

"I'm really excited to be coming to Key West to showcase the book, and it seems very appropriate," said Edward Hemingway, son of Ernest's youngest son Gregory. "My father spent a great deal of his childhood in the Keys and so did I — so what better place for me to launch my first children's book?"

"Bump in the Night" features blue-hued retro-style illustrations, an appealing young hero, humor and adventure, and a reassuring message that debunks childhood fears. Published by Penguin Putnam, it has already earned favorable notice from the prestigious "Kirkus Reviews."

"I love telling stories through a combination of words and pictures, and the power of a great children's story, which gets told again and again, is a very satisfying thing," said the author/illustrator. "I guess making a kid laugh is its own reward."

Before turning his attention to children's books, Edward Hemingway saw his writing and illustrations published in "The New York Times," "Gourmet," "GQ" and "Nickelodeon Magazine" among other outlets. His second children's book, "Bad Apple," will be released by Penguin Putnam in 2009.

The Blue Heaven reception is to take place in the property's gloriously funky outdoor space and will feature light refreshments. As the opening event of Hemingway Days, it kicks off a literary schedule that includes authors' readings and presentations, a play debut and the announcement of the winners of the internationally recognized Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition.

"As much as I love the revelry and celebration around my grandfather's life, it's always nice to see and participate in events that showcase or reflect on Hemingway's impact and legacy as a writer," said Edward Hemingway.

Admission to the book signing and reception is free to kids, grownups and everyone who wants to find out why there's no need to fear a "Bump in the Night." The event is sponsored by Blue Heaven and Casa Marina Resort & Beach Club.

For more information about "Bump in the Night," visit www.edwardhemingway.com. To learn more about Blue Heaven, visit www.blueheavenkw.com.