Instead of an April Fool, the first and second grade students of Wissahickon Charter School got a real treat with an entertaining and interactive discussion with award-winning children’s author and illustrator Henry Cole on April 1st.

During his visit, Cole talked to the students about his children’s books and what it takes to write and illustrate them. He also added to his presentation by creating amusing drawings while he was speaking to illustrate his words.

Cole’s visit was sponsored by Longwood Gardens in conjunction with Awbury Arboretum. He also made an appearance for Family Community Read Day at Longwood Gardens, to give local children the chance to enjoy a day of reading him on Saturday, April 2nd.

Cole’s popular children’s book ‘On Meadowview Street’ is part of the Longwood Gardens’ annual Community Read which aims to generate discussion around an idea or topic. The initiative is designed to encourage residents in the region to join together in reading the same book.

“Partnerships such as what we have with Longwood and its Community Read program enhance our ability to serve our community, and highlight the impact public gardens have to enrich people’s lives,”  added Chris Van de Velde, General Manager of Awbury Arboretum, the 55-acre public garden and arboretum.

Cole’s work as an illustrator go back to his teaching days when he frequently used art to illustrate a concept during his science classes at the Langley Elementary School in Virginia.  Besides On Meadowview Street, Cole is also the illustrator of several other popular books for children, including his own Jack’s Garden, A Nest for Celeste and The Story of a Prima Swanerina, which was recently animated by Disney. Cole has also collaborated with other authors as well as celebrities such as Julie Andrews and Harvey Fierstein.

“One of our core values as an organization is community engagement,” said Paul B. Redman said, the Director of Longwood Gardens. “We are thrilled to have had this opportunity to work with Awbury Arboretum to support Henry Cole’s visit for the students of Wissahickon Charter School.”