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The Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association and its Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership will host a special holiday-themed Nature Book Fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12, at the Montour Preserve.
The event will feature a large assortment of nature and science-themed books and STEM kids from the PaperPie publishing group, as well as featuring numerous local bookstores with tables of books available and a growing list of authors and speakers.
Among them will be award-winning nature and science writer Rebecca Hirsch, who has written more than 100 books and will offer a special family book reading opportunity with hands-on craft all starting at 11 a.m.
Also joining the lineup will be renowned nature author Cindy Ross, who has written books about her experiences on the Appalachian Trail, the value of nature-based education, the therapy veterans have found while hiking local trails and more. She will be speaking about her work starting at noon.
Local children's author Alyssa Maddalena will also be at the event showcasing her book "Good Morning Susquehanna" which was inspired by trips over the river with her daughter, as well as her newest selection "Walk with Me" designed to inspire young people to take walks in nature with their families.
"We are excited to see this event come together while partnering with local bookstores, like Mondragon, and authors to showcase some of the best nature writing for people of all ages. These books educate and spark more interaction with our natural resources, and that helps inspire people to be better stewards," said Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky. "Just a couple of weeks before Christmas, this will provide the perfect place for people to top off their holiday gift shopping lists and have a little fun."
That will include a "holiday" sweater contest.
"Everyone jokes about those ugly sweaters around the holidays, but some are pretty creative and we only get to use them this time of year, so why not add an extra opportunity to show off those sweaters and maybe win some fun prizes?" Zaktansky asked. "We'll give away some vouchers toward free and reduced-priced books along with some other cool items in various categories."
Food and beverages will be available throughout the event, with proceeds benefitting environmental education at the Montour Preserve and beyond.
Those interested in attending should consider pre-registering using the form at the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper website.