Milford Readers & Writers Festival

We are hosting two talented authors as part of The Milford Readers and Writers Festival.

A. J. Schenkman is a passionate educator and accomplished writer. He has a deep expertise in historical writing and is the author of several books about local, regional, and national history. He also acts as a mentor to aspiring writers, providing clear and supportive guidance through the often-daunting publishing process.

Grey Towers Heritage Association is pleased to host author A. J. Schenkman at Grey Towers Historic Site for a reading and discussion of his children’s book, Franklin’s Trees. This book introduces children to Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s love of nature and the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression, which came to be known as “Roosevelt’s Tree Army.”

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Join author Rasha Hamid for the true story of a Brooklyn kindergarten class that took action when their favorite beech tree was cut down. Stay a little longer for an Ella Jenkins–inspired sing-along! 

Rasha Hamid attended New York City public schools before earning a bachelor’s degree in Africana Studies and Education at Vassar College, and a master’s degree in Special Education at Bank Street College of Education. Rasha has developed her practice in classrooms in East Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Khartoum, and Brooklyn for over 25 years. Rasha considers herself an educator-activist—someone who works to make the world more just, joyful, equitable, and sustainable through the education of children and grown-ups.

Rasha began creating picture books with her classes to fill the need for books reflecting her students, their experiences, and their passions. Rasha self-published her first picture book, Kadisa كديسة. Rasha’s second picture book, How to Bird was Released by Free Spirit Press in Fall of 2023, followed by Hello, Beech Tree! in June of 2024.

Rasha is proud to be the autistic mom of an autistic young adult. Autism and birding are two of Rasha’s special interests. Rasha also loves baking, making music, and creating all kinds of art.

This book event is free and appropriate for individuals ages six through 12. It will be held in the pool terrace.