When Mary Casanova was growing up, there weren’t many books for young readers that really had the ability to catch her attention. Though she could read aloud well, reading comprehension was difficult and books she read had to catch her attention right away. Casanova grew up in a family of ten children, and writing became her voice.
Many of Casanova’s books have been inspired by her life on the Minnesota-Canadian border, and she discussed these books at the Two Harbors Public Library on April 14. From picture books such as One-Dog Canoe to young readers’ books like her Dog Watch series to historical fiction including Riot and Frozen, Casanova’s “up-north” books cover diverse aspects of life in Northern Minnesota.
Casanova’s books aren’t limited to Minnesota, though. She’s traveled as far as France, Norway, and Belize to research her historical fiction novels Curse of a Winter Moon and The Klipfish Code and her many books for American Girl.
At the Two Harbors Public Library, Casanova warmly greeted those who came to her presentation. The library displayed their collection of her books, and Casanova also had books available to purchase. The program was sponsored by the Arrowhead Library System and was funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Mary Casanova received a Creative Support for Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board for the 2021 fiscal year. Thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, the program was made possible by Minnesota voters.
Casanova began her visits to the Arrowhead Library System Libraries on April 10 at the Cook Public Library. She will continue traveling to area libraries through April 26th, where she ends this tour at the Marble Public Library. Be sure to check your local library for her stop in your hometown, or catch Mary along her route as you travel through the Arrowhead Region this month.
