In this bilingual prerecorded program, you will listen to a reading of Zonia’s Rain Forest by acclaimed author Juana Martinez-Neal and enjoy an art-making activity with Public Programming and Outreach Fellow Alexandra Walsh. Martinez-Neal's book explores the wonders of the rain forest with Zonia, an Asháninka girl, in her joyful outdoor adventures. Zonia’s home is the Amazon, where it is always green and full of life. Every morning, the rain forest calls to Zonia, and every morning, she answers. She visits the sloth family, greets the giant anteater, and runs with the speedy jaguar. But one morning, the rain forest calls to her in a troubled voice. How will Zonia answer?
Learn about ecosystems and botanical art by Margaret Mee, pioneering artist, explorer, and advocate for the Amazon rain forest featured in the special exhibition opening this fall, Margaret Mee: Portraits of Plants. Explore the ecosystems around you and gather leaves to create your own botanical prints! You will need washable paint; paintbrushes; printer paper, construction paper, or cardboard; different types of leaves; and a water glass. Remember to practice good outdoor ethics; collect natural materials responsibly from public spaces.
Prerecorded videos are available in English and Spanish language. This program is part of the Read & Create family program series featuring storytelling and hands-on activities.