Recently an exhibition honoring a local children’s author opened to the public, an iconic children’s character celebrated a birthday with a tour, a Caldecott Medalist takes on the board book form, and an author made a school visit.
The Maine Event
On February 8, the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath, Maine showcased its newest exhibit, “Upon That Isle in Maine: The Story & Works of Chris Van Dusen.” The exhibition highlights local author-illustrator Chris Van Dusen, from Portland. Along with the creator’s original artwork, visitors can enjoy a replica of Van Dusen’s studio, and a drawing instructional narrated by the creator. Van Dusen made an appearance for the opening ceremony. Here, Jennifer Stonebraker and Kate Cutko from Bowdoinham Public Library enjoy the exhibit.
A Big Day for the Big Red Dog
Bookstores across the country took part in celebrating Clifford’s 62nd birthday, with visits from the big red dog sponsored by Scholastic. Attendees enjoyed Clifford-themed Valentines and activity sheets as well as an opportunity to meet the honored character. Here, Clifford greets young guests during an appearance at Country Bookshop on February 8 in Southern Pines, N.C.
This Land Is Your Land
On February 4, Caldecott Medalist Jon Klassen (l.) visited Sullaluna bookshop and bistrot in the West Village to present his new board book trio, Your Places (Candlewick), comprised of Your Island, Your Farm, and Your Forest. He was joined by illustrator Julia Rothman (r.) for a conversation about the underappreciated and deceptively simple art of board books—the subject of his recent New York Times essay—his penchant for drawing objects and enigmatic eyes, and the rewarding challenge of creating something that feels spare but complete. “These are my little escape hatches,” he said of the books. The discussion was followed by a book signing and dinner with the author.
Off to the Races
Author Kaz Windess made a visit to Superior Elementary in Boulder, Colo., on February 7 to celebrate the release of her book, Bitsy Bat, Team Star! (S&S/Beach Lane). The book follows titular Bitsy, who struggles after being upstaged during a flying race, and must choose between helping her friends or focusing on a rematch. During the visit, organized in partnership with Boulder Bookstore, Windess spoke to K through third grade students about the latest addition to her Bitsy Bat series, and signed copies of the book for students and staff.
