Faina, the little girl who captivates readers of The Snow Child, is accompanied through much of the novel by a red fox. He keeps Faina company, warns her of danger and works as a hunting partner. Readers come to see the fox as a symbol of Faina’s ability to survive alone in the wilderness by relying on her adaptability, intelligence, patience and persistence, all qualities she shares with the red fox. As part of 2013 A Novel Idea, Kelley Gilbert, local craft maven, will lead two workshops where participants can create their own fox made from felt. The workshops are free and open to the public. Class size is limited to 15 and registration is required. Register on line at www.deschuteslibrary.org/calendar or by calling 541/312-1032.

April 20, 2013 • 2:00 p.m.
East Bend Public Library

April 23, 2013 • 6:00 p.m.
Redmond Public Library


Gilbert, who has lived in Central Oregon for nine years, says she is inspired by colors and patterns and she uses them liberally in sewing and crafting projects. “I love to mix new with old, to reuse materials in an inventive way.” During the workshop Gilbert will instruct participants how to make a pair of felt fox faces that can be used in a variety of ways including as elbow patches or coffee cup cozies.

The 2013 “A Novel Idea” selection The Snow Child, by Eowyn Ivey, takes place in Alaska during the 1920s as a couple homesteads an impossible land. Ivey carries the reader through the stark Alaska landscape without apology, threading the story together with a magical realism and hopeful persistence. Dozens of events between April 13 and May 4 invite residents of Deschutes County to explore the Alaska landscape, homesteading, art, food and more, culminating with a visit by author Ivey on May 3 and 4.

For more information about this or other library programs, please visit the library website at www.deschuteslibrary.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats, seating or auxiliary aides) should contact Liz at 312-1032.