Curious Iguana will host award-winning picture book creators Joanna Ho, Gary R. Gray, Jr., and Oge Mora in Frederick on Thursday, October 12, for free visits at two local elementary schools and a 6pm event at C. Burr Artz Library that is free and open to the public.

In addition to coordinating these events, Curious Iguana aims to give 500 free signed copies of Say My Name by Joanna Ho or I’m From by Gary R. Gray, Jr. and Oge Mora to students of the Title I school the authors and illustrator will be visiting. The bookstore is looking to individuals and businesses in the community to help fund the book drive.

 “For most students, this event will be their first opportunity to meet three spectacular picture book creators in person,” explains Bonnie Monnier, Curious Iguana’s event manager, adding that receiving a signed copy of one of their books will make the experience even more memorable. “We know, of course, that not every family can afford to purchase a book for their children, so we’re hoping the community will help.”

Monnier admits that providing 500 free books is a lofty goal, but she is optimistic that individuals and businesses will generously support the effort. Curious Iguana is committed to funding at least 120 books, enough for three classrooms, and encourages others to purchase single or multiple copies through curiousiguana.com between now and October 2. Bookstore staff will deliver books to the school on October 12.

Direct link for the book drive: https://curiousiguana.com/product-category/upcoming-event/event-books/ 

For more information, please see the attached documents, or contact Curious Iguana at [email protected],  301.695.2500.