A Rare Chance To

Meet Jane Yolen

Newtown Middle School’s readers have been preparing for this weekend’s visit to Newtown by children’s book author Jane Yolen by reading and discussing the author’s material (see related story, The Newtown Bee, February 23, 2001), and now it is time for the rest of town to sit up and take notice of a rare opportunity being offered at the library this weekend.

Jane Yolen is one of the most famous and well-loved authors of children’s books in the world today. She has written nearly 200 books, from charming and humorous picture books to stories, poems, novels, science fiction, fantasy and mythic tales. She is a writer who is able to transcend the generations, writing for readers of all ages and interests.

Among her award-winning books are Owl Moon (Caldecott 1988), Piggings (Nebraska Golden Sowers Award and New York State Charlotte Award), The Emperor and the Kite, The Devil’s Arithmetic, The Girl Who Loved the Wind, The Seeing Stick and Commander Toad in Space.

She has taught literature at Smith College and writing seminars that have helped launch the careers of fellow children’s artists.

In addition to the above-mentioned honors, Ms Yolen has also won two Nebula Awards, the Christopher Medal, the World Fantasy Award, three Mythypoeic Awards, the Gold Kite Award, the Jewish Book Award and the Association of Jewish Libraries Award

She is a popular and eagerly sought after speaker who usually presents to crowded auditoriums and at similarly large locations.

On Sunday, March 4, The Booth Library Authors Fund will present a program with Ms Yolen. The free program is suitable for readers of all ages.

Ms Yolen’s talk will be of interest to middle and high school students as well as parents and other adults thanks to the scope of her work. Students will be encouraged to exchange ideas and ask questions of the famous author in the intimate setting of the library.

Booth Library, at 25 Main Street in Newtown, can be contacted by calling 426-4533.