Heroes of all Kinds: Exploring Inclusion in Literature (1)

Inspired by the book Sitting Pretty by Rebekah Taussig, the Chippewa Falls Public Library and the Heyde Center for the Arts invite the public to join us in the Heyde Center auditorium for an interactive program on disabilities as we kick off The Big Read. Local author, Pey Carter, will lead an engaging discussion on disabilities and inclusion, and encourage children to reflect on the importance of seeing themselves and others reflected in the stories they read. Following the discussion, there will be a reading of Pey’s new picture book, Bendy Bones and Stretchy Skin: An Ehlers-Danlos Book. Through this program, we hope to inspire everyone to appreciate the rich tapestry of human experiences and foster a generation of readers who champion diversity and inclusion in their literary choices and beyond. No cost for admission. Pey's book will be available for purchase.

Pey Carter is an author, playwright, and public speaker specializing in mental health, disabilities, and trauma. They are currently working on an Ed.D. in Performance Improvement Leadership. Pey identifies as a disabled veteran and trauma survivor who uses their experiences to raise awareness about difficult topics. In the coming year, the Chippewa Falls Public Library together with the Heyde Center for the Arts with support from a Big Read grant from to promote and finance their community-based reading programs featuring activities such as read-a-thons, book discussions, lectures, movie screenings, and performing arts events.

Sponsored by a Big Read grant from the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest and a grant from Mayo Clinic Health System.