Leaders are Readers featuring Mélina Mangal

Bring the family and join us for our Leaders are Readers event which inspires young readers with author read-alouds and book giveaways.

The free event takes place at Rondo Community Library from 11 am - 1 pm on Saturday, May 4th.

Mélina Mangal will be reading her new title, Jayden's Secret Ingredient and will be available for book signing and pictures afterward.

Embark on a heartening journey as the author presents a captivating reading of Jayden's Secret Ingredient. Jayden loves the outdoors and the garden he created with his friend Mr. Curtis. But he’s not so sure about sampling some of the garden’s produce. When Mr. Curtis invites neighbors to share the harvest of scarlet runner beans, Jayden faces a dilemma. Will he find the courage to try something new?

Mélina Mangal’s prequel to Jayden’s Secret Ingredient is Jayden’s Impossible Garden which won the first Strive/Free Spirit African American Voices in Children’s Literature contest, was recognized as a Blueberry Honor book for inspiring love of nature and action for planet earth, was named One of the Best Children's Books of the Year by Bank Street Center, and was nominated for the Minnesota Star of the North Reading Award. Mélina is also a school library media teacher and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family.

Our author will be reading their book, leading a seed starting activity, and be available for book signings and pictures afterward. It's a wonderful opportunity to inspire reading and a love for books.

Host or Publisher Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute