Today, as I was packing the things I am taking to my new arts space in Water Valley, I made sure that some bookcases and children’s books were amidst the loads of arts supplies.

For me, the word “arts” has a broad definition. I paint, draw, write, make textile arts, etc. But writing for children is also one of my arts, and for years, I was a children’s program director & storyteller in New Jersey. I was also a children’s book buyer, and I reviewed children’s books for the state of New Jersey. Children’s books are a passion for me, and I have decided that it is time for circumstances to provide more resources to help children and families learn to love the magical world of Kid Lit.

This story hour will not be a free babysitting service. I want children and their caregivers to learn to love picture books together. For older kids & their families, I am offering something else:

For the older kids and their families, I’ll launch a Family Book & Movie Club.

We’ll read a different book each month, and on one day each month, we’ll come together and celebrate the book by watching its respective movie. Again, I’m asking that each child be accompanied by a caregiver. Part of the reason for this activity is to promote a family reading habit.

Family Book Club Selections:

August – Tuck Everlasting
September – The Wizard of Oz
October – The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
November – The Velveteen Rabbit
December – How the Grinch Stole Christmas

January – The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
February –