Celebrate the release of author Terry Lee Caruthers new chapter book, Red & Me with a special program for families of young readers at the East Tennessee History Center. The book is set in rural Tennessee during the 1930s and is a heartwarming tale of family, friendship, adventure, and the special bond between a girl and her dog. The story offers readers a glimpse into life in a rural southern town in the 1930s, while also addressing the painful realities of racial injustice. This novel for young readers skillfully blends a child’s innocence and sense of wonder with an honest exploration of the real world. Activity stations will be set up in the auditorium and will include: meeting with dog rescue agencies in “Red’s Corner”, learning about Knox County Public Library’s Depression-era bookmobile service and listening to stories from popular books that were read at the time, exploring sugar substitutes that were used in cooking during the Depression, sampling Marlene’s Jumble Cookie recipe from the book, and participating in special children’s activities provided by History Center staff. In addition, a special reading by the author will take place at 11:00 a.m. and the ETHC bookstore will have copies of the book for sale.

Program Schedule

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Welcome & Storytelling by Terry Caruthers and Red’s Corner tables open (Young Williams, Humane Society, Vintage Pet Project, HABIT); bookmobile station, and activity stations open for exploring

11:00 a.m. – Reading from Red & Me by Terry Caruthers and Q&A about her writing process

11:30 a.m. – Refreshments (lemonade and Marlene’s Jumble Cookies from the book) and activity tables open for exploring

The ETHC bookstore will have copies of the book for sale.