DATE: Saturday, April 6
TIME: 10am – 11am
LOCATION: Open Book Bookstore
Free event!
Join us for storytime with Rachel Dougherty, author of the new book Secret Engineer: How Emily Roebling Built the Brooklyn Bridge. Join the author as she reads her story, tells about writing the book, and leads a fun craft using yarn to build a bridge!
“Dougherty’s lively narration of the events provides readers with an accessible, factual account of a remarkable woman’s accomplishments.”
–Kirkus Reviews
On a warm spring day in 1883, a woman rode across the Brooklyn Bridge with a rooster on her lap.
It was the first trip across an engineering marvel that had taken nearly fourteen years to construct. The woman’s husband was the chief engineer, and he knew all about the dangerous new technique involved. The woman insisted she learn as well.
When he fell ill mid-construction, her knowledge came in handy. She supervised every aspect of the project while he was bedridden, and she continued to learn about things only men were supposed to know: Math, science, engineering. Women weren’t supposed to be engineers. But this woman insisted she could do it all, and her hard work helped to create one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
This is the story of Emily Roebling, the secret engineer behind the Brooklyn Bridge.
About the Author:
Rachel Dougherty
Rachel Dougherty is the illustrator of such nonfiction picture books as Your Life as a Cabin Attendant on the Titanic, Your Life as a Pioneer on the Oregon Trail, and The Twelve Days of Christmas in Pennsylvania. She is a lifelong history buff and has always paid special attention to brave and commanding women. Secret Engineer is the first picture book she has both written and illustrated. She lives in Philadelphia.
Schedule:
Parents, drop in anytime and join the fun! Rachel will be reading from her book. and leading a craft activity for the kids. Oh and did we mention that mimosas will be served for the adults?
RSVP to this free event at lynn@openbookphilly.com and please tell us how many adults and how many children you will be bringing. We will have a special beverage just for parents!