Cupcake picnic with author Lynn Plourde

   GREENVILLE — On Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon, Maine children’s book author Lynn Plourde will give an interactive reading at The Center for Moosehead History. Plourde will share books interactively, including her hot-off-the press book “You’re Wearing THAT to School?!” plus turn another book into a simple play with audience members acting out parts.

   Children are encouraged to wear their most wacky and colorful first day of school outfits. Cupcakes, door prizes and goody-bags are guaranteed (all children under adult supervision, please).
   Plourde’s new book tells the story of Penelope the hippo who wants to wear her sparkle rainbow outfit on the first day of school despite warnings from her best friend Tiny the mouse who encourages her to blend in. “You’re Wearing THAT to School?!” received a starred review from Kirkus Reviews plus a Gold Oppenheim Award. Those attending this Shaw Public Library event are encouraged to join Plourde by dressing in wild and wacky outfits in honor of Penelope.
   Plourde has had 28 children’s books published, including “Only Cows Allowed,” “Dino Pets Go to School” and “Lost Trail,” a graphic novel co-authored with Donn Fendler. Some of her other books include “Pigs in the Mud in the Middle of the Rud,” “Moose, of Course!” and “Wild Child.”
Video read-alouds, learning activities, and a blog on teaching writing are available on her www.lynnplourde.com website.
   Plourde is a native of Skowhegan who currently lives in Winthrop with her husband Paul Knowles.
   The “Dig Into Reading Summer Program” and Shaw Public Library Association will sponsor this event.
   Please call the Shaw Public Library at 695-3579 for further information.