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Trotting on the Trail of Misty and Marguerite Henry

Presented by Local Author Susan Friedland

Join Friedland as she traces the background of the Newbery Medal-winning author and explores Henry’s legacy.

In the realm of children’s literature, Marguerite Henry reigned as the unofficial queen of horse books from the 1940s until her death in 1997. The resident of nearby Wayne, Illinois rose to prominence with her 1947 title, Misty of Chincoteague, which tells the story of Virginia’s wild Chincoteague Ponies and their annual swim to Chincoteague Island, an event that draws thousands of visitors every year. Still widely read, Misty of Chincoteague has sold more than a million copies, inspired the creation of Misty and Stormy (her foal) Breyer horse models, and a 1961 Misty film produced by 20th Century Fox.
Local author Susan Friedland’s Marguerite Henry biography “Marguerite, Misty and Me” shines a light on the previously hidden history of Henry, whose influence is still strong, nearly thirty years after her death. From a kayak in the waves off Chincoteague Island, to an underground archive at the University of Minnesota, Friedland unearthed clues about Henry's personal life, riding and writing practices which she will share in her presentation. Join Friedland as she traces the background of the Newbery Medal-winning author and explores Henry’s lasting legacy. Celebrate Marguerite Henry, the trailblazing female writer whose unforgettable horse stories have brought joy to generations of readers.
The author will sign books and will have books for sale.

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