Local author discusses new novel, The Bridge Home

Award-winning local author Padma Venkatraman will discuss her new novel, The Bridge Home, Wednesday, May 1, at 6:30 p.m. at the Maury Loontjens Memorial Library, 35 Kingstown Rd., Narragansett. The Bridge Home is the middle-grade debut for Venkatraman, whose young adult novels, A Time to Dance, Island's End and Climbing the Stairs, were released to starred reviews and received numerous honors.

Venkatraman has worked as chief scientist on oceanographic ships, spent time under the sea, directed a school and lived in five countries. In her latest book, she tells the story of four determined homeless children living in Chennai, India. This contemporary story is receiving acclaim for its powerful message of courage, hope and survival in the face of homelessness and poverty. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing. Proceeds will benefit the Friends of the Narragansett Library. This event coincides with the nationwide celebration of Children's Book Week. Register at www.narlib.org or call 401-789-9507.

The library will also host a Tween Book Club featuring The Bridge Home. Children between the ages of 9-14 are invited to register and pick up a free copy of the book at the Children’s Desk. The book club will meet on Tuesday, April 30, from 6-7 p.m. at the Maury Loontjens Memorial Library.