The Dark

It started with a fear of Frog and Toad, or crabs, or poison…depending on who you believe. It ended with an extremely happy bunch of Bank Street School for Children 7/8s, 8/9s, 9/10s (and a few grown-ups who snuck in under the radar). It was the official launch of The Dark by Lemony Snicket, with illustrations by Jon Klassen (Irma Black finalist two years running). We are pleased to report that it was as awesome as a secret book launch starring two (actually three) of our very favorites could possibly be.

There was Daniel Handler on the piano, a hilarious (who knew this was possible) PowerPoint presentation, words of wisdom delivered on behalf of Mr. Snicket – “Don’t drink poison”, a bit of live blind illustration, and the best Neil Gaiman impersonation imaginable (involving special guest Neil Gaiman of course). Many thanks to Daniel, Jon, and Neil for coming! You are welcome at Bank Street anytime. Now, let’s let the photos do the talking.

Pre-Show Fun

Jon and Daniel start their signing

What did you just say? (Editor Susan Rich plays referee)

Peace is made

It’s Showtime!

Children’s Librarian Allie Bruce warms up the audience

Daniel, Neil, and Jon wait in the wings

And so it begins

Jon sketches sans blindfold

And sketches…

Things get a bit more complicated

Jon sketches blindfolded while Daniel (also “blindfolded”) does his best impression of Neil Gaiman

Neil reads

And shares a moment with Daniel

The end (a brilliant Jon sketching Lemony Snicket’s worst fear – still blindfolded of course)

Post-Show

Celebrating with CCL Director Jenny Brown and Children’s Librarian Allie Bruce

P.S. – Stay tuned for some video footage of the event :). Many thanks to Cheryl Simon for the lovely photos.

–Lindsey Wyckoff, Bank Street College Archivist