“One Brave Dot” with Peter H. Reynolds

The Jo-Linda and Dennis Keith Distinguished Speaker Series

The Syracuse University School of Education welcomes acclaimed author and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds for a 2-day residency on March 19-20, 2019, during which he will visit and work with Syracuse University students, local schools and libraries, and the broader Syracuse community. Peter will also present a Community Event at Central Branch Library.

“I just can’t draw.” These words, uttered by a first grader nearly twenty years ago, inspired Peter’s mission to urge all of us to “make our mark” bravely. While his book, The Dot (which celebrates its 16th anniversary this year) is about art and a great art teacher, the book is a ultimately a metaphor for being brave enough to take that first brave step and see where it takes us. Peter’s newest books Happy Dreamer and The Word Collector dare us to keep positive, keep dreaming and keep finding powerful words to help express what we are thinking, feeling and dreaming. Peter will unveil his new book, Say Something! which reminds readers that the world needs our voice, all voices. In a world where a few loud, boomy voices drown out the more nuanced voices, marginalized voices, this book is a rallying cry for all of us to share what we believe and how we’ll move the world to a better place.

This event will be followed by a reception and book signing; a selection of Peter H. Reynolds’ books will be available for purchase on-site from the Syracuse University bookstore (cash, check, or credit card).

Creativity champion Peter H. Reynolds is a NY Times best-selling author & illustrator. Published in over 25 languages, Peter’s books including The Dot, Ish, The Word Collector, Happy Dreamer, and soon to be released Say Something! inspire children and “grown up children” with his messages about authentic learning, creativity, bravery, empathy, and courageous self-expression. Peter 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.

Peter lives in the Boston area where he founded The Blue Bunny, a family-owned and operated children’s book, toy, & 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.

Free parking available in the Harrison Avenue Lot (at University Avenue). Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be provided. For additional accommodation requests, please contact suschoolofed@syr.edu or 315.443.4696.

Directions: The Stolkin Auditorium is in the Physics Building, between the Carrier Dome and Hendricks Chapel. From the University Avenue Garage, go south along University Avenue into the Syracuse University main campus, continue past the Schine Student Center and the Hall of Languages, and go through the lawn of the Shaw Quad behind HB Crouse Hall.