Peter H. Reynolds
The School of Education and the Jo-Linda and Dennis Keith Distinguished Speaker Series announce the 2019 speaker, acclaimed author and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds. He will visit Syracuse for a two-day residency on Tuesday, March 19, and Wednesday, March 20. This is the second annual Keith Speaker Series residency.
Reynolds will present a public keynote titled “One Brave Dot” on Tuesday, March 19, at 5:30 p.m. in the Stolkin Auditorium, Physics Building. He will discuss several of his books, including “The Dot,” “Happy Dreamer” and “The Word Collector” and how they encourage readers of all ages to keep positive, keep dreaming and keep expressing themselves. Reynolds will also unveil his new book, “Say Something!,” which reminds readers that in a world where a few loud voices can drown out more nuanced, marginalized ones, it’s important to stand up for others.
On Wednesday, March 20, from 3-5 p.m., Reynolds will also hold a community event at Central Branch Library, 447 S. Salina St. He will read from one of his books, followed by an interactive activity and a meet and greet with families. All are welcome and there is no cost to attend.
Both events will be followed by book signings, with a selection of Reynolds’ books available for purchase on-site from the Syracuse University bookstore.
Other planned activities during Reynolds’ residency include a visit to the Syracuse University Early Education and Child Care Center, the Bernice M. Wright Laboratory School and Van Duyn Elementary School, as well as a lunchtime chat with students from across Syracuse University. The Keith Speaker Series is also donating several sets of Reynolds’ books to Van Duyn Elementary.
Creativity champion Peter H. Reynolds is a New York Times best-selling author and illustrator. Published in over 25 languages, his books inspire children and “grown up children” with his messages about authentic learning, creativity, bravery, empathy and courageous self-expression.
Reynolds also illustrated the best-selling “I am Yoga, I am Peace, I am Human,” and “The Water Princess,” with Susan Verde, as well as the Judy Moody series by Megan McDonald. He lives in the Boston area where he founded The Blue Bunny, a family-owned and operated children’s book, toy and creativity store. With his twin brother Paul, he launched the Reynolds Center for Teaching, Learning, and Creativity, a not-for-profit organization that encourages creativity and innovation in teaching and learning.
The Jo-Linda and Dennis Keith Distinguished Speaker Series was established by Jo-Linda ’65 and Dennis Keith in 2017 to bring exceptional and award-winning authors and illustrators to share their expertise about the craft of writing children’s picture books on topics that matter.
“Peter has an amazing ability to write about developmentally appropriate concepts for children on topics which children can and should relate to,” says Jo-Linda Keith. “His wonderful illustrations make these words come alive which hopefully will initiate discussion in the classroom.”
She continues, “the School of Education and the Syracuse community are very fortunate to have Peter Reynolds for the upcoming events. He is a very warm, creative and engaging presenter.”
For more information about the series, public events, directions, parking and accommodations, please contact the School of Education at suschoolofed@syr.edu or 315.443.4696.
