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

British Swim School - Manhattan

The premier learn-to-swim provider for people of all ages, offering programs for children ages 3-months through adults.&nbsp; British Swim School uses gentle teaching methods and a survival-first approach to help people of all experience levels become safer, stronger swimmers. British Swim School&rsquo;s safe, fun, and effective instructional program has made it the preferred choice for parents and students for over 40 years. Come see the British Swim School difference!

Basketball City

Beginning June 2024, Basketball City will be running a full weekly schedule of Summer Basketball Camps. We will have our professional staff of coaches teaching your kids weekly. Our camps are designed to teach kids the skills they need to become a better basketball player by using specific drills and fitness work that focus on the fundamentals of the game in a fun, safe and inclusive environment. &nbsp;The camps run weekly varying in time and the number of days for ages 6-17. We have 3-, 4- &amp; 5-day options with times ranging from 9-4pm or 9-3pm. Every camper will receive a jersey once they are registered and arrive. We are limiting the number of camp participants each week to ensure a safe and healthy environment for your children. The limited number of campers will also ensure that your child receives individual attention needed to improve their basketball skills. Our camps in the past typically include current and past NBA players and a collaboration with the Jr. Knicks, the National Basketball Players Association, as well as 5 Star Basketball, and our ever-popular Basketball City FUNdamentals Camp along with our Jr. NBA/NBA Cares NBA Draft/Skills Challenge Camp with future NBA talent.

Polaris Productions Theater Camp

Kids will learn, rehearse, and perform the wonderful Maurice Sendak and Carole King musical, Really Rosie. For 10 weekdays, campers will take part in physical and vocal warm-ups and learn choreography, staging, and vocal parts. They&rsquo;ll develop skills in acting, singing, character development, and more. This camp will ignite your child&rsquo;s imagination and passion for performing, build their self-esteem, and help them form lasting friendships. They&rsquo;ll have fun! At camp&rsquo;s end, the kids will perform Really Rosie for family members and friends. Kids of all levels of experience, ages 8 through 13, are welcome to join.