Bethel's Byrd's Books explores Manhattan for young readers, Sept 7

Eloise romped in the grand Plaza Hotel and beyond, and took Manhattan by storm. Now young readers (ages 8 to 12) and their families can too, through the eyes and words of CT map illustrator and author, Jennifer Thermes, in her new book, MANHATTAN: Mapping the Story of an Island. On Saturday, September 7th, 2:00pm to 3:30pm, join Jennifer at Bethel's  Byrd's Books for a discussion and book signing, and learn the stories that every inch of Manhattan has to tell.

Jennifer loves weaving maps that give a sense of geography and place into her stories, and is fascinated by the big picture of history and how it connects with our lives today.  To join her and pre-order a book, click https://conta.cc/2H93axV The event is free to the public. Byrd's Books is located at 178 Greenwood Avenue, adjacent to The Toy Room and the nearby landmarked Opera House, across the street from the Bethel Public Library.

Through dramatic illustrations, informative sidebars, and detailed maps inspired by historic archives, MANHATTAN: Mapping the Story of an Island, a Junior Library Guild Selection, explores the rich history that still draws people from all around the world to the island’s shores today. In Jennifer Thermes' colorful chronicle, about which Booklist said, "This slice of American history is a gem," readers travel back in time to discover how a small rodent began an era of rapid change for the island. Learn about immigration, the slave trade, and the people who built New York City. See how a street plan projected the city’s future, and how epic fires and storms led to major feats of engineering above and below ground. In fact, Jennifer will guide aspiring Eloises, and other girls and boys, from the Battery to Inwood and every inch in between. (Jennifer's nonfiction mapping also includes Charles Darwin’s Around-the-World Adventure and Grandma Gatewood Hikes the Appalachian Trail.)

Byrd's Books is open Tuesdays through Saturdays 10:00am to 6:00pm, Sundays 12:00 noon to 4:00pm. On-street parking lines Greenwood Avenue, and municipal parking is available at the Bethel Public Library across the street and at the "Old Train Station" which is where Broken Symmetry now resides. There are private lots nearby as well. For more information, visit byrdsbooks.indielite.org or call (203) 730 BYRD (2973).

EXTRA! EXTRA! On Friday, September 6th, 5:30pm to 7:00pm, Byrd's Books will celebrate its one-year anniversary of the store's new location. Owner Alice Hutchinson and staff will, once again, celebrate Harry Potter Night with door prizes, costumes, trivia, and refreshments, along with a craft at the neighboring Toy Room.