Wendy Orr, from Red Hill Australia, Author of Nim's Island:

Through the power of the internet, local children will have the opportunity to meet authors across the globe.  “Here and There with…” is a monthly program for students in grades 3-5 held the second Monday of each month from 3:30-4:30 p.m. starting Jan. 13.

“Being able to meet and interact with authors is an invaluable experience for children,” said Elizabeth Murray, children’s library.  “In the past we would never have been able to bring such a wide variety of authors to Stillwater, but with Skype we can.”

 Each session will begin with a recap of the author’s works and biography.  The group will then connect with the author via Skype to have a 15 minute discussion.  Following the chat, the children will engage in a project, game or activity relating to one of the author’s works.

“We encourage, but do not require, each child to read one of the author’s books,” said Murray.  “We are fortunate that the Friends of the Library will be providing ten copies of one book by each author.  Prior to the Skype sessions, children may borrow a copy of the book to read and return it at the program.”