It is – allegedly – the most wonderful time of the year, and while we grown-ups may find ourselves caught up in the stresses of adulthood (holiday traffic, unruly family members, and rampant consumerism everywhere), the little ones amongst us still get that sparkle in their eye. We might do well to remember the purity of the magic we once experienced – and that those of us with children get to experience vicariously through their blissful innocence. Start this week by taking them to any of three extra-special holiday storytimes around Louisville:
First, tonight, December 10, is the Nutcracker Storytime with the Louisville Ballet. Presented by the Louisville Free Public Library in conjunction with The Brown-Forman Nutcracker, a ballerina from the production will be present to read the classic E.T.A. Hoffman story The Nutcracker, followed by crafts and activities. In addition, participants are entered into a drawing to win four tickets to see the ballet. The event starts at 6:30, but arrive early: at the last Nutcracker Storytime event, seats filled up fast and many teary-eyed children had to be led away story-less – my own included. The Nutcracker Storytime will take place at the Southwest branch, located at 9725 Dixie Highway.
Next, head over to A Reader’s Corner Bookstore on Saturday the 13th for a reading/performance of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the familiar tale of the green goon who discovers that the true meaning of Christmas: that it’s not all about the gifts and decorations – a pertinent reminder for all of us (see above note about rampant consumerism). There will be two performances, at 1:00 and 2:00. A Reader’s Corner is located at 2044 Frankfort Avenue.
Stick around in the area until 7:00 and head over to Carmichael’s Bookstore for the Polar Express Pajama Party. The party includes a reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s story about a magical train ride to the North Pole, as well as crafts and games – and perhaps an especially jolly special guest. The event is free but Carmichael’s requests participants RSVP via their website. Carmichael’s is located at 2720 Frankfort Avenue.
Photo courtesy of A Reader's Corner website.
