We are thrilled to announce that children’s book illustrator and author, R. Gregory Christie, will be visiting Henrico County Public Library for a series of events! R. Gregory Christie is the recipient of the Coretta Scott King, Caldecott Honor and NAACP Image awards and has illustrated more than 60 books throughout his career. Christie’s work engages young readers in stories that connect them to different cultural figures and events throughout history.
Several of Christie’s titles are featured in HCPL’s collection, including:
Answering the Cry for Freedom: Stories of African Americans and the American Revolution
This collection of stories highlights thirteen African Americans who joined British and American forces during the Revolutionary War to speak out against the evils of slavery. Their bravery led to settlements in Nova Scotia and Africa and influenced the fight for freedom in America.
Bad News for Outlaws: The Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U.S. Marshal
Born in 1838, Bass Reeves escaped slavery to become a respected lawman and, ultimately, the first African American Deputy US Marshal west of the Mississippi. With over 3,000 arrests made throughout his lifetime, it is no wonder that Reeves was admired and feared by many.
This is a story about Congo Square, where for more than a century, enslaved and free people of color sought refuge in New Orleans, Louisiana. Legally declared a day of rest, enslaved individuals were permitted to congregate in Congo Square on Sundays. Here is where they could escape their daily struggles and oppression and reconnect with the singing, dancing and musical traditions of their West and Central African roots.
The rhythm is contagious in this story about an impromptu dance party that emerges upon the waking of the family baby. Jazz Baby will have readers snapping, singing, dancing and celebrating music with every page!
City Mouse and Country Mouse are cousins who take turns visiting each other in this adaptation of the classic Aesop fable, “The Town Mouse and Country Mouse.” Music and sound are a running theme as the mice learn that there are pros and cons to living in both locations.
For more R. Gregory Christie titles, visit our online catalog.
Upcoming events with R. Gregory Christie
All programs require registration except where noted. Program attendees are eligible for a chance to receive a signed copy of a book illustrated by R. Gregory Christie.
Friday, November 5, 4-5 p.m. at Libbie Mill Library
Learn the unique craft of bookbinding in this workshop. Registered participants will take home a handmade artist book; all materials will be provided.
Friday, November 5, 5-5:30 p.m. at Libbie Mill Library
From concept and text to the finished product in book form, learn how Christie created visual connections for readers in his award-winning book, Bad News for Outlaws, the story of the first African American Deputy U.S. Marshall and remarkable figure of the Old West, Bass Reeves. Registration is not required for this event.
Saturday, November 6, 10 – 10:45 a.m. at Fairfield Area Library
Creativity and fun merge as participants explore the joy of creating art! All materials will be provided. Best fit: ages 3-6
Saturday, November 6, 11 – 12 p.m. at Fairfield Area Library
Students are invited to a dynamic art play experience. Creativity and fun collide as participants turn their ideas into art! All materials will be provided. Best fit: ages 6-11.
Saturday, November 6, 2 – 3 p.m. at Varina Area Library
Teen artists are invited to an illustration workshop with illustrator R. Gregory Christie. All materials will be provided.
These events have been made possible with support from Facebook.