From the first episode in July, viewers have loved WGBH’s Molly of Denali, a new multi-platform PBS KIDS series and the first national children’s series to feature an Alaska native lead character. Millions of children have tuned in to watch the show on TV and online, and even more are connecting with Molly by visiting the website and listening to the series podcast. No doubt Molly would say “Mahsi’ Choo,” the word for “Thank you” in her native Gwich’in language.
Boston fans have a special opportunity to connect with her at the Molly of Denali Bookfest at the Boston Public Library on Sunday, October 6 from 2-4pm. A-maze-ing Snow, a story book developed by HarperCollins and WGBH, and based on an episode of the same name, will be distributed.
“Molly’s life in Alaska is full of adventure, which makes the television episodes so much fun to watch,” says Jessica Andrews, project director for WGBH children’s media. “These adventures also translate really well into book form. We think kids will love them.”
The books are designed to complement the show and podcast and also introduce Molly to a broader audience.
A-maze-ing Snow is the first of seven books to be published by HarperCollins. Each book is being produced in collaboration between the publisher and WGBH. The collection will include picture books with stickers, early readers that are perfect for children learning to sound out words and sentences, and e-books. As with the televised series, the books feature Molly using informational texts and sharing Alaska Native values—all the while promoting literacy.
At the Boston Public Library’s free event, visitors can test their knowledge of Alaskan animals, take a picture in front of the Denali Trading Post, make a beaded bracelet, see how fast they can complete a snow maze activity sheet, and color favorite characters from the television show. Visitors will be treated to an episode screening and read-aloud story time.
Find out more about the event here.
