Library Lines: Fall festivities are in full swing
Lord of the Gourd will be live at the library 5-7:45 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24. Watch Patrick Harrison create whimsical expressive characters out of gourds. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and learn some carving tips and tricks. This is a busy time of year for Patrick. We are fortunate to have him sharing his skills with our community. This is a free presentation. Registration is not required. Bring the entire family!
A family-friendly Haunted House experience at the library happens 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27, and 10 a.m.-2:45 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, and 1-4:45 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29. No jump scares or startles, just some spooky sounds and music, a little fog and some frightful surprises. We realize some folks may find certain elements disturbing like spiders for instance, parental discretion is advised. Costumes are encouraged! Snap some selfies or family photos in front of our Halloween backdrop. Our Haunted House experience is self-guided and free to attend. Registration is not required. We hope to see you in costume at the library for this fun event!
On Saturday, Oct. 28, from 1-2:30 p.m. we are hosting a Halloween Zines workshop. Kids ages 8-18 are invited to the library studio for a free 90-minute workshop making mini magazines which can be imaginative or informational. Participants will learn about the construction and use of ‘zines while making their own 8-page version. Colorful and metallic markers will be provided or bring your own favorite drawing supplies. This is a free program, registration is not required.
American Sign Language classes will be offered at the library 5-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays beginning on Nov. 7-Dec. 12. Learn vocabulary, practice signs and build upon your vocabulary in a fun supportive environment with instructor Judy Ryan. All sign language skill levels are welcome to attend these classes. Classes are free to participate, ages 8 and up are welcome. A three-ring binder is recommended for organizing handouts. Registration for sign language classes is required and class size is limited. Register in person or call the library at 231-627-2381.
Since 2007, the Michigan Humanities Council has selected a book written by a Michigan author as the Great Michigan Read. This year Michigan Humanities selected "Firekeeper’s Daughter" by Angeline Boulley as the Great Michigan Read. Her debut novel, "Firekeeper’s Daughter," is a captivating and powerful story that explores complex themes such as identity, family, community and justice. The novel follows the journey of 18-year-old Daunis Fontaine, a biracial tribal member, as she navigates the challenges of her dual identity, the trauma of losing loved ones, and the pressure of being a bridge between cultures.
Author Angeline Boulley is an enrolled member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and grew up on Sugar Island in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Angeline is the former director of the Office of Indian Education at the U.S. Department of Education. “Although Firekeeper’s Daughter is rooted in my tribal community, it is a work of fiction, and I have taken a great deal of creative license. Among other changes, I chose to fictionalize a tribe facing issues in the realm of what my actual tribe, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians might experience.” — Angeline Boulley.
In spring 2024, audio and e-book versions will be available on ReadMichigan.org. Anyone with a Michigan IP address will be able to download "Firekeeper’s Daughter" for free!
— Paula Jewell is program director of the Cheboygan Area Public Library.
This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Library Lines: Fall festivities are in full swing
