New Smithsonian Guides Focuses On Southern States
The latest offering in the “Smithsonian Guides to Natural America” series is on the bookstore shelves; this one covers the south-central states.
The parks, wilderness preserves, nature sanctuaries and scenic wonders of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi are explored in this paperback book. It’s $19.95, ISBN: 0-679-76479-8.
And, speaking of guidebooks
It’s a narrow niche market, but there must be a need for a guidebook specifically for folks who own dogs who will be visiting (or who live in) Seattle. The book - “The Seattle Dog Lover’s Companion” - gives the “inside scoop on where to take your dog in the Seattle area, including Vancouver and Victoria.”
It includes not just motels and other lodging that are dog-friendly, but also parks and even restaurants that will take kindly to you and your pooch. The book’s $17.95, it’s written by Steve Giordano and is published by Foghorn Press.
Not just for kids
The classic children’s tale “Hansel & Gretel” will be staged as an opera by Tacoma Opera Nov. 2, 9 and 10 at the Pantages Theatre in Tacoma. Tickets range from $20-$50, half-price for kids under 12, and are available at Ticketmaster, (206) 628-0888 or Tacoma Opera, (206) 627-7789.
Spooooky?
Those willing to travel for Halloween thrills might consider Grand Coulee Dam as a destination. We realize this big concrete hulk isn’t scary in itself, but the town of Grand Coulee has built a “genuine fake” cemetery and there will be food booths with caramel apples and hot cider and a pumpkin contest. The event is Oct. 24 from 4 to 7 p.m. For more info: (509) 633-3074.
A gathering of readers
Avid readers should plan a weekend in Seattle Oct. 26-27 since that’s the dates of the annual Northwest Bookfest. The event is the region’s largest literary festival and includes appearances by more than 200 authors, 160 book and publishing exhibits, readings, panel discussions, interactive children’s activities and book displays. Last year more than 23,000 people attended the festival.
Northwest Bookfest will be held on Pier 48 on the Seattle waterfront. For a schedule, call (206) 789-9868 or visit the Bookfest Web page: http:/ /www.speakeasy.org/nwbookfest.
Scares Emerald City-style
No surprise that Halloween will be celebrated in Seattle, too. And the Pacific Science Center is staging a Haunted Halloween that includes a Chamber of Chills, Gremlin’s Grotto, Pumpkin Patch Workshop and a storytime with Scary Stories in the Dark.
The goings-on begin Oct. 25 and continue through Halloween. The Haunted Halloween festivities are included in admission to the Science Center, $7.50 for adults, $5.50 for kids 6-13 and seniors, $3.50 for kids 2-5. For more information: (206) 443-2001.
, DataTimes