Children’s Book Discussion At Library

By Tanjua Damon

Students in grades four through six have an opportunity to take part in a book discussion of Merlin by author Jane Yolen on February 16, from 4 to 5 pm at C.H. Booth Library.

Merlin is the third book of the wizard trilogy by Ms Yolen, who has written over 100 children’s books for all ages. The fantasy books Ms Yolen writes are about the legends of Merlin and his childhood, according to Children’s Librarian Alana Maloni.

Liz Arneth will facilitate the book discussion for youngsters. The participants will discuss the book and will come up with questions they could ask the author about her book in preparation for her visit in early March to the library.

“We want the kids to be aware of who she is and about her books,” Ms Maloni said. “I think it is important that we prepare in some way for her visit.”

In Merlin, the story is told about 12-year-old Merlin who gets involved with a tribe of wild people who cage him and expect him to tell the future. He also meets the child who will be King Arthur one day.

In 1998 Ms Yolen received the Mythopoeic Society Award for her three book series Passager, Hobby, and Merlin. The titles are from falconry according to Ms Yolen’s Web site at www.janeyolen.com.

There are still spaces available for students in grades 4 through 6 to participate in the book discussion on February 16 beginning at 4 pm in the library. Call the library for more information at 426-4533,

Author Jane Yolen will be at the C.H. Booth Library on March 4 from 2 to 3 pm to talk about her books and have a book signing.