Reading Magic at the Library

This summer children have been happily participating in the reading program, One World, Many Stories. The  has been fortunate to be able to offer several exciting children's events, with a multi-cultural theme.

Member of the Friends of the Library Kara Heintz offered this enthusiastic response to the program:

With the support of the Friends of the Flint Memorial Library and the Massachusetts Cultural Council children saw firsthand how books can inspire a magic show. Magician Mike Bent entertained over 30 children and their parents using the libraries' summer reading theme, One World, Many Stories.  The lively show began with a classic children's character, Olivia, in "Olivia Goes to Venice." Mike explained how Olivia becomes obsessed with gelato as she travels through the canals of Venice in search of the cool treat. This led to a hard to find Olivia and a magic trick that got the kids searching for the illusive pig as she traveled the city. With the help of a volunteer and directions from the audience Mike was able to find Olivia and tame her sweet tooth.

Another book turned inspiration was "The Littlest Matryoshka." The story tells of the travels of the littlest Russian nesting doll, Nina, as she searches for her sisters. Using a brave mom's diamond ring, Mike made the ring disappear, much like Nina had. A child volunteer opened one Matryoshka doll after the other, only to find more dolls. Finally to the delight of the audience, especially one mom, the ring reappeared in the littlest Matryoshka doll.  

Mike used three other children's books, which told folktales from France, Japan and Africa in his show. His interactive and creative style proved to be the perfect way to fuse magic and books. Mike’s show inspired those in attendance to explore the world of magic and books.

The Friends of the Flint Memorial Library were happy to sponsor such an energetic and lively show. For more information on upcoming library events sponsored in part by the Friends, please visit their website or find the library on Facebook.

The event was supported in part by a grant from the North Reading Cultural Council a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

One World, Many Stories is sponsored by the Flint Memorial Library, the Massachusetts Library System, the Boston Bruins, and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.