All things green for March.
When I was initially asked to write for this column for March, all I could think about was green grass, the arrival of spring and, of course, St. Patrick’s Day with green beer.
The month of March has so much more to offer than just thoughts of emerald and one holiday. There is the just-completed International Women’s Day, Plant a Flower Day, the birthday of Dr. Seuss, National Read Across America Day and National “Pi” Day, which is fun even if you aren’t a mathematician.
I did some pondering and research about these different holidays, and the green that bursts forth in March all around us. This spurred me into thinking about some of my favorite books in our library that go along with these holidays, and might even have a hue of green somewhere in them or on them.
One particular holiday that I am proud to be a part of is International Women’s Day celebrated last Thursday. Our library carries two books that really showcase the spirit and determination of women involved in history.
The first is a nonfiction work found in the Indiana room called “Bold Women in Indiana History,” by Columbus resident Louise Hillery. This book touches on Marie Bailly, who was one of the first settlers in northwest Indiana.
The second book, that I continue to recommend wholeheartedly is “The Radium Girls,” by Kate Moore. This is a true story about the fearless women that worked in the factories during World War I, painting watch dials with radium. A small group of women, poisoned from this work, fought for women’s rights throughout the suffering they endured until their tragic and painful deaths.
With the arrival of spring, a holiday that reminds me it is time to go dig in the dirt and enjoy the green outdoors is Plant a Flower Day. Those of you who want to get outside and plant will enjoy not only the beautiful pictures, but also some wonderful ideas for your own plot of green in the book “Midwest Cottage Gardening,” by Fran Manos. It will surely get you firmly planted with some information on small plot gardening.
The recent celebration of Dr. Seuss Day on March 2 not only celebrates the birthday of author Theodore Geisel, but also has been designated as National Read Across America Day. The Bartholomew County Library carries a wide selection of Dr. Seuss books. So why not read the book “Green Eggs and Ham” found in our Easy Reader section in the children’s area.
This is a fun way to experience the color green in a whole new way. Wednesday is National Pi Day, related to math. But, c’mon, add an “e” and go ahead and celebrate by making one of the delicious pies or tarts out of the book “Tart it Up!” by Eric Lanlard (and don’t forget about the discovery of 3.1416!).
Last, but certainly not least, I cannot forget to mention St. Patrick’s Day on Saturday — and a beautifully illustrated kids Hoopla e-book available for download, “Fiona’s Luck” by Teresa Bateman.
So come on out to the library and check out some books celebrating the holidays and the many shades of green in March.
Michelle (Shelly) Bishop works as a library assistant in adult circulation at the Bartholomew County Public Library and can be reached at [email protected].
