The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, in Amherst, is partnering with First Book to host a free family day on Feb. 1.
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, in Amherst, is partnering with First Book to host a free family day on Feb. 1. The event, dubbed "Friendiversary," is a celebration of friendship and reading, and will feature costumed characters Elephant and Piggie, from Mo Willems’ award-winning book series.
According to a release, First Book is a "nonprofit social enterprise that has distributed more than 100 million books and educational resources to programs and schools serving children from low-income families throughout the United States and Canada."
The event will also feature Newbery Honor artist Grace Lin, as well as story times, films, exhibitions, and art activities, surrounding the theme of friendship. Peter Pan Bus Lines is providing free, round-trip transportation to the museum, from Holyoke and Springfield. The first 500 children who attend will receive a free book in the "Elephant & Piggie" series.
“It's the celebration of when two pals first met, in this case Elephant and Piggie. It's an opportunity for fun, games, friendship, and reading,” said Willems, of the meaning of the word "friendiversary," in the release.
Related museum exhibits include "Seriously Silly: A Decade of Art and Whimsy by Mo Willems," featuring Elephant and Piggie, Pigeon, and Knuffle Bunny, among other Willems characters; "The Art of Eric Carle: Friends," which showcases museum co-founder Carle’s newest book, and "Natalie Merchant and Barbara McClintock: Leave Your Sleep."
“We are delighted to offer this free day with support of our sponsors,” said Rebecca Miller Goggins, development director. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to give back by opening our doors to new faces, and to celebrate reading and friendship with the community.”
Erica Perl, First Book’s vice-president of author and publisher relations, added:
“We created Friendiversary to celebrate friendship and reading, as well as connect more kids from low-income families with the wonderful work of Mo Willems."
For the day’s schedule or details of Peter Pan bus reservations, visit carlemuseum.org or call (413) 658-1126. Free books are compliments of Disney Publishing Worldwide.
Eric and Barbara Carle founded the Museum in November 2002. Eric Carle is the renowned author and illustrator of more than 70 books, including the 1969 classic "The Very Hungry Caterpillar."
Museum hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 12 noon to 5 p.m. Admission is $9 for adults, $6 for children under 18, and $22.50 for a family of four. For further information and directions, call (413) 658-1100 or visit www.carlemuseum.org.