The Oneida Daily Dispatch (Oneida, NY)
Local author, illustrator to visit library
CAZENOVIA N.Y. » The Cazenovia Public Library invites the whole family out for a children’s book event with local author Maurice Hebert and Cazenovia illustrator Megan Tennant.
The program will take place on Oct. 6 at 11 a.m. and include a reading of their newest book, “The Kingdom Without Rhyme” as well as activities for kids, and an opportunity to purchase signed books.
“The Kingdom Without Rhyme” is their second book and tells the story of a king- dom where rhyming is declared a crime. The unique part of the interactive story is that all of it is written in rhyme but the words that complete the verse are hidden in the pictures. All becomes clear once the reader understands that the reading itself is a plan to cure the king of a terrible curse.
Hebert explains that the “The Kingdom Without Rhyme” is part of his effort to increase awareness of how unique the English language is and how valuable it is for shaping humor, imagination, and education.
The book is a fun read for 6-year-olds and up, and a great way to teach children about the value of language and rhyme. Currently employed in the foodservice industry, Maurice is pursuing his retirement by growing a list of titles for his company Mograce Publishing.
Cazenovia illustrator, Megan Tennant, has brought the story to life with her colorful and whimsical illustrations. Children will especially enjoy her depiction of the new invention the “Rhymeoccular” and may catch some pointers on how to
draw their own “Rhymeoccular” image.
Megan’s work has been published in Uppercase Magazine, SCBWI bulletins and featured on Two Leaves and a Bud. Her watercolors and illustrations were exhibited last autumn at the Cazenovia Library. Events like this book reading and creative activity proves that the teamwork of writer, illustrator and libraries make celebrating community so enjoyable.