GOD is Watching the Apples
Discover the inspiring story behind Tops Marketplace in GOD is Watching the Apples, published on July 19, 2025.
GOD Is Watching the Apples takes readers on a journey with Tops Marketplace store owners John Salerno and Betsy Tooker, as they share heartwarming and sometimes heartbreaking, first-person accounts with author Chuck Miceli, revealing the surprising and often incredible history of the Plantsville and Southington’s beloved local grocery store business. From its humble beginnings to community cornerstone, this story of faith, resilience, and the belief that every challenge has a purpose is one of inspiration and hope.
Authors Chuck Miceli, Betsy Tooker, and John Salerno were honored to participate in the 56th Annual Southington Apple Harvest Festival, where they held their first official book signing for GOD Is Watching the Apples. The event took place at the Hopko Performance Hall Gallery in the Southington Cultural Arts Center, drawing a warm and enthusiastic crowd.
During the signing, the authors connected with both new readers and longtime supporters, reflecting on the rich history of Tops Marketplace and sharing how the store has evolved over the years. Their heartfelt conversations and community spirit captured the essence of who they are, and as told in the book, it is a story defined by faith, resilience, and the enduring power of local connection that makes their journey so personal.
GOD is Watching the Apples is available for purchase as an eBook ($4.99) as well as a paperback ($17.49) on Amazon, and on the Barnes & Noble website.
Tops Marketplace has books available for purchase at the Customer Service desk. We invite you to visit our store and browse the reviews we’ve shared, then purchase your copy.
EVENTS
Author Talk & Presentation for the Southington Rotary Club
WHEN: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 12:15 – 1:00 PM
WHERE: Craft Kitchen 42 West Main Street, Plantsville, CT
At the invitation of the Southington Rotary Club, co-authors Chuck Miceli, John Salerno, and Betsy Tooker will present the “Story Behind the Story” of GOD is Watching the Apples. The authors will discuss the impetus for the book and the process of writing this true story of how faith, resilience, and human connection transformed a small “box” store in rural Connecticut into a beloved community institution. A visual presentation highlighting key moments from the book and Tops Marketplace’s history, will accompany the talk. Discounted books will be available for purchase and signing. Open to the members of the Southington Rotary Club and their guests. Please register via this email link with the Southington Rotary Club if you plan to attend.
GOD is Watching the Apple – Book Sale & Signing
WHEN: Sunday, December 7, 2025 | 7 AM – 12:00 NOON
WHERE: Fancy Bagels 405 Queen Street, Southington, CT
Join co-authors John Salerno, Betsy Tooker, and Chuck Miceli for a special book sale and signing event. Pick up your discounted copy of GOD is Watching the Apples and get it personalized and signed by all three authors—just in time for that perfect holiday gift for the readers on your list. Or simply enjoy reading it while you savor some of the tastiest bagels available anywhere!
Open to the public, no tickets or registration required.
GOD is Watching the Apples – Author Talk, Presentation & Book Signing
WHEN: Wednesday, January 14, 2026 | 6:00 – 7:30 PM
WHERE: Southington Public Library 255 Main Street, Southington, CT
Co-authors John Salerno, Betsy Tooker, and Chuck Miceli present this heartwarming and inspiring true story that explores how faith, resilience, and human connection transformed a small “box” store in rural Connecticut into a beloved community institution. A visual presentation highlighting key moments from the book and from Tops Marketplace’s incredible history will accompany the talk.
The library has several copies available for loan. Discounted books will be available for purchase and signing. Please register with the library link here to help accommodate everyone’s needs.
GOD is Watching the Apples – John E. Demello Sr. Veterans Coffee Hour
WHEN: Friday, January 16, 2026 | 9:30 – 10:30 AM
WHERE: Calendar House 388 Pleasant Street, Southington, CT
Co-authors John Salerno, Betsy Tooker, and Chuck Miceli provide an engaging overview of their book, accompanied by a narrated visual presentation highlighting key moments from GOD is Watching the Apples and Tops Marketplace’s incredible history. Discounted copies will be available for purchase and signing.
Limited to veterans. No registration or tickets required.