Sunday Story Time with Caron Levis (creator of Ida, Always)

Reading
Ages 4-8

For more information, please call 718.666.3049 x102

RSVP appreciated: RSVP@POWERHOUSEon8th.com

Inspired by the true story of the Central Park Zoo polar bears Ida and Gus, Levis’s sensitive depiciton of losing a friend.

About Ida, Always:

“. . . this wonderful story about the loss of a loved one is beautifully told. It’s an example of children’s books at their best . . . This is a difficult story to tell for both children and adults, but ‘Ida, Always’ does it with simplicity and grace.”—The New York Times

“Levis takes readers on a reassuring emotional journey that explores friendship, love, and loss . . . Levis’s characterization of caring, supportive friends is spot on.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review

Gus lives in a big park in the middle of an even bigger city, and he spends his days with Ida. Ida is right there. Always. Then one sad day, Gus learns that Ida is very sick, and she isn’t going to get better. The friends help each other face the difficult news with whispers, sniffles, cuddles, even laughs. Slowly, Gus realizes that even after Ida is gone, she will still be with him— through the sounds of their city, and the memories that live in their favorite spots. Inspired by the true story of the Central Park Zoo polar bears Ida and Gus, Levis’s sensitive depiciton of losing a friend is the perfect way to talk to young readers about death. Levis, who works with loss and bereavement groups, has crafted an exquisitely told story of two best friends, and a gentle, moving, needed reminder that loved ones lost will stay our hearts.

About the Creator:

Caron Levis enjoys working with kids using drama and creative writing to develop social, emotional, and literacy skills. She was inspired to write this story by the creative and brave students, teachers, and parents she met during visits with her first book, Stuck with the Blooz. She has her MFA in Creative Writing for Children from the New School University and lives in NYC, where she grew up near the real Gus and Ida. Visit her online at CaronLevis.com.