Magic is in the air at Books are Magic

Come and experience the magic at the Books are Magic book shop through November.

Celebrate the release of the previously unfinished fairy tale of Mark Twain, “The Purloining of Prince Oleomargarine” on Nov. 4 at 11 am, with an all day read-a-thon. The tale was brought to life by author Philip Stead and illustrator Erin Stead. The day also marks the 150th anniversary of Mark Twain’s very first book “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County and Other Sketches.”

On Nov. 5 at 1 pm The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators presents a new series, Back 2 Back, which features children’s book veterans with new talent. Nov. 5 welcomes Lisa Desimini and Andrea Tsurumi, who will read their books and host a fun story time.

Jancee Dunn launches her new picture book “I’m Afraid Your Teddy is in Trouble Today” on Nov. 11 at 11 am Jancee answers the question, “Have you ever wondered what stuffed animals do while their companion humans are at school?” The adorable story is a whimsical tale of freedom and comes to life in Scott Nash’s colorful illustrations.

All the events are free, open to the public, and are suitable for all ages. RSVP is requested.

Books are Magic [225 Smith St. in Gowanus; (718) 246–2665; booksaremagic.net

USC Gymnastics & Baseball Training Facility

We offer sports activities, after school programs, birthday parties &amp; private lessons for kids ages 3&ndash;13 years! Our gymnastics classes are a great way to keep your child active and healthy. We strive to empower and challenge children through the sport of gymnastics.

Saf-T-Swim

For over 35 years, Saf-T-Swim Swim School has been teaching lifesaving swimming skills throughout Nassau County, Suffolk County, and now Little Neck. The school is proud to be Long Island's #1 swim school and a leader in water safety education. With swim programs for infants as young as 4 months, beginners, and advanced swimmers, Saf-T-Swim offers swimming programs for every age and skill level. Discover why generations of Long Islanders have trusted Saf-T-Swim time and time again with equipping their little ones the essential skill of swimming. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Tutorverse

Join The Tutorverse for the highest quality in academic enrichment and test preparation! Whether your student is gearing up for the&nbsp;state exams, ISEE, SSAT, SHSAT, or SAT/ACT, our team of&nbsp;experienced and local professional educators&nbsp;can help. Have your student join a&nbsp;small-group class&nbsp;at our downtown or Upper East Side locations. Or, they can meet with a&nbsp;private tutor when and where it&rsquo;s most convenient for your family. Does your student need help building study skills or improving grades? Whether your middle or high schooler needs help with&nbsp;STEM or humanities, our patient and affirming tutors will teach them how to build&nbsp;confidence and content mastery.&nbsp;<a style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;" href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Send us an email</a> or give us a call&mdash;we'd love to hear more about how we can help!