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Once again, the Westfield Washington Public Library, in cooperation with the other county libraries, is participating in “Hamilton County Reads,” a countywide program, which begins March 1 and lasts until April 17, when everyone is asked to read the same book.
This year’s title is “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. The story begins in January of 1946, when writer Juliet Ashton receives a letter from a stranger, a founding member of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. This is a remarkable tale of the island of Guernsey during the German occupation, and of a society as extraordinary as its name. Multiple copies of the book are available for check out at the library.
Kids also have a chance to participate by reading “Blueberries for the Queen” by Katherine and John Paterson, with illustrations by Susan Jeffers. The story takes place during World War II, when a boy named William likes to imagine at bedtime that he is a brave knight fighting great battles to end the war. Then a real queen moves in just down the road: Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands, who is forced out of her country because of the war. William now has his chance to really do something for the war effort.
The Westfield Washington Public Library will host many special programs connected with the book:
Island of Guernsey Watercolor Class I, Thursday, March 11, 2010 at 10:15 a.m.
Artist Jan Roland teaches the art of watercolor painting and introduces the natural beauty of Guernsey Island -- an example of the class painting project is displayed at the library. There is a fee of $12 per person, and registration is required.
Frugal Shopping, Tuesday, March 16, at 10:30 a.m.
You may not have to use ration coupons, but everyone needs ideas for keeping their monthly shopping bills within budget! Come to the library for this free presentation on bargain shopping tips by Lisa Cangany, Program Assistant of Consumer and Family Science for Purdue Extension in Hamilton County. Organizing dinner plans, stocking up your pantry, and tips for getting the most out of sales and coupons will all be covered. The program is free, and registration is encouraged but not required.
Postcards From the Past, Saturday, March 20, at 2 p.m.
Discover the beauty and variety of vintage postcards at “Postcards From the Past.” Mr. Harley Sheets, the President of the Indianapolis Postcard Club, will give a presentation on the hobby, history & value of postcards. A few of Mr. Sheets’ postcards are on display at the library. Following the presentation, Mr. Sheets will be available to answer questions and give free appraisals. The program is free, and registration is encouraged but not required.
Life in the ‘40s, Wednesday, March 24, at 2 p.m.
Join Marie Albertson, Don Seal, Dottsie Grins and others as they share their recollections of life in the ‘40s and their experiences during World War II. The program is free, and registration is encouraged but not required.
Welcome to Guernsey: Travelogue and Book Discussion, Wednesday, March 31, 6:30 p.m.
Where in the world is Guernsey? What is potato peel pie? Join us as we travel to the island of Guernsey through a slideshow and book discussion. Whether you’ve finished the Hamilton County Reads selection or want to know more about this community wide read, you’ll find plenty to discover at this up close look at “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.” Come to the library and learn more about this unique book that has the whole community reading! The program is free, and registration is encouraged but not required.
Remembering Iwo Jima, Saturday, April 3, 2 - 4 p.m.
- Survivor of the Battle of Iwo Jima, 2 p.m.
Marion “Frank” Walker served in the Headquarter Company of the 2nd Battalion, 28th Regiment, and 5th Marine Division. He fought in the battle of Iwo Jima and was one of the few soldiers to reach the top of Mount Suribachi and live to tell the story. He’s eager to help teens and adults understand the complexities of what historians consider one of the bloodiest battles in the war with Japan. Mr. Walker has written a book “Preparing for the Rain on Iwo Jima,” and will have autographed copies available. Don’t miss his first hand account of the epic battle and the raising of the flag.
- Iwo Jima: Indiana’s Youngest Veteran Remembers, 3 p.m.
Experience the history of our greatest generation with Jim Baize, a World War II Veteran who served bravely at Iwo Jima. Baize, an aircraft engineer following WWII, shares his stories of enlisting at age 15, as well as photos from the battle of Iwo Jima. He has recorded his story for the Library of Congress archives and Park Tudor’s fourth edition of “Words of War.” We invite you to join us for this once-in-a-lifetime presentation by an honored United States Veteran. The program is free, and registration is encouraged but not required.
Island of Guernsey Watercolor Class II, Thursday, April 8, at 10:15 a.m.
Artist Jan Roland teaches the art of watercolor painting and revisits the natural beauty of Guernsey Island. An example of the class painting project is displayed at the library. There is a fee of $12 per person, and registration is required.
Frugal Chef: Delicious Meals on a Budget, Thursday, April 15, at 3:30 p.m.
You may not have to struggle for your next meal, as they did on Guernsey Island, but you can save money and eat well by cooking your own meals at home! Join us for this interactive presentation by Lisa Cangany, Program Assistant of Consumer and Family Science for Purdue Extension in Hamilton County, as she demonstrates how to prepare tasty menus that will fit your family’s budget. Sample a budget recipe and learn tricks to save time and money, too. The program is free, and registration is encouraged but not required.
For more information on any of these programs, check our website at www.wwpl.lib.in.us or contact Information/Reference Services at 317-896-9391.
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