A few years ago when visiting the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, children’s book author and illustrator Mo Willems was hanging out with his daughter, Trixie (star of "Knuffle Bunny"), and his friends Elephant and Piggie, signing books and inspiring young readers.
Between the giant Very Hungry Caterpillar reading nook, movie theater, super-stocked kids’ library, stunning galleries, picturesque apple orchard, irresistible bookstore and hands-on, kid-centric art gallery, Piggie, and Elephant were just the icing on the cake that day for my then-3-year-old daughter. But his Berkshire Mom can attest that even on an average day, the Eric Carle Museum is well worth the 45-minute trip down the MA Pike and 91 north, and my soon-to-be first-graders would enjoy it just the same.
Upcoming Events at the Museum include:
- Daily through Aug. 21, Every Day Art Program: Take inspiration from the weather outside and The Art of Eric Carle: Seasons exhibition to create your own moveable and interactive art!
- July 27, 10:30 a.m.: Special Storytime — David Covel: “Hey, you! Sky’s blue!” a girl shouts as she runs by the window of a boy bent over his digital device. Intrigued, the boy runs out after her, leaving his shoes (and phone) behind, and into a world of sunshine, dewy grass, and warm sand. Join author David Covell in Bobbie’s Meadow as he reads from his new picture book Run Wild, an exquisite, kid-friendly reminder of how wonderful life can be beyond doors and screens.
- July 28, 2 p.m., Special Storytime — Casey Robinson: From a factory rooftop, Iver and his good friend Ellsworth (a rooftop bear) are content to watch the busy world below. “Everyone’s going somewhere,” Iver says. “We can see the whole world from up here. That’s enough somewhere for me.” But after Iver retires, the friends must venture out in search of a new somewhere. Of course, the very best views are those you share with an old pal. Join author Casey Robinson as she reads from her debut picture book Iver & Ellsworth!
- Mondays through Aug. 27, 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Summer Reading with Bright Spot Reading Dogs: Children ages 4-11 will enjoy reading aloud to Reading Buddy dogs, who provide a gentle, comforting listener to readers as they practice their fluency and strengthen their confidence in reading.
- Tuesdays through Aug. 28, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Little Kids Yoga: This specially designed yoga class for children and their adult caregivers brings everyone together to join in the yoga fun! Classes take place outside in the new meadow! Yoga activities include a welcoming circle, breathing time, sun salutations, and movements inspired by what we see in nature. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned yogi family, there is something for everyone.
- Wednesdays through Aug. 29, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Word Play with Center Studio Dance: Ages 3 and up; caregiver participation welcome. Join The Center Dance Studio for creative movement and narrative dance inspired by picture books. Bring your imagination and your dancing feet!
- Thursdays, through Aug. 30, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Toddler and Preschool Play Series: Enjoy an interactive storytime in Bobbie's Meadow, followed by time to move, play, and explore art materials.
- Aug. 3, All Day, Free Fun Fridays: Come celebrate picture books with art activities, films, and special storytimes with authors/illustrators Jessie Sima and Jeff Mack!
(Check back soon for full event schedule.) - Aug. 3, 11 a.m., Special Storytime — Jess Sima: Join Jessie Sima, author and illustrator of the bestselling Not Quite Narwhal, as she reads from her new picture book Harriet Gets Carried Away, a sweet and funny story about remembering where you belong, no matter how far you roam, or what you’re wearing when you get there.
- Aug. 3, 1 p.m., Special Storytime — Jeff Mack: Join author and illustrator Jeff Mack as he reads from Mr. Monkey Bakes a Cake and other titles from his hilarious new picture book series about the lovable Mr. Monkey and his wacky adventures.
- Aug. 4, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., "Aladdin, Jr.": Discover a "Whole New World" with this Disney classic. Based on the Broadway adaptation of the 1992 animated feature, catchy songs, and delightful characters will have you grooving in your seats. Performed by students ages 7-17 from Starlight's Youth Theatre.
- Aug. 10, 10:30 am., Special Storytime — Holly Hobbie: Join Holly Hobbie, the creator of the Toot & Puddle series, as she reads from her latest picture book Elmore – the warmhearted porcupine sure to steal the hearts of a new generation of Holly Hobbie fans!
- Aug. 11, 2 p.m., Special Storytime — Vanessa Brantley Newton: When Grandma Mimi comes to visit, you’ll never know what she’ll have in her purse - fancy jewelry, tokens from around the world, or something special just for her granddaughter. It might look like a normal bag from the outside, but Mimi and her granddaughter know that it’s pure magic! Join author/illustrator Vanessa Brantley Newtown as she reads from her new book, Grandma’s Purse, an adorable, energetic ode to visits from grandma that shows how an ordinary day can become extraordinary.
- Aug. 18, 3-4 p.m., Happier Family Comedy Show: Geared for kids ages 5-12, you won’t want to miss this program packed full of high energy and family-friendly funnies! This show is all about letting creativity flourish in an accepting atmosphere. Each improv show is an hour-long, all new, and created on the spot based on audience members’ suggestions and participation.
- Sept. 15, 3-4 p.m., Happier Family Comedy Show: Geared for kids ages 5-12, you won’t want to miss this program packed full of high energy and family-friendly funnies! This show is all about letting creativity flourish in an accepting atmosphere. Each improv show is an hour-long, all new, and created on the spot based on audience members’ suggestions and participation.
- For more events see HERE.
Advance reservations required on select programs. Visit carlemuseum.org for more information.
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is located at 125 West Bay Road in Amherst, Massachusetts. For more information go online to carlmuseum.org. Field trips at The Eric Carle Museum focus on careful observation, critical thinking, and discussion. During a guided program, students not only tour galleries but create an art project in the Art Studio. Tours last anywhere between 60-90 minutes, depending on the age of the students.
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Before becoming a full-time mom, Mary George spent a decade working as a technology analyst for the Gilder Technology Report (published by Forbes) and later served as president of Gilder Publishing, LLC., in Great Barrington. She was the longtime producer the internationally celebrated Gilder/Forbes Telecosm Conference and went on to co-found Chasing George, LLC, the company that developed and produced The Berkshire Forum at the Colonial Theatre in September 2010. A former high school math and physics teacher, she studied Engineering at Providence College and holds a degree in mathematics from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Mary resides in the Berkshires with her husband, Chris, and their two children.
