“We are pleased to host these two well-known authors and to create valuable learning opportunities for students and library patrons,” said Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs, Elmer MacFadyen.

The authors will be visiting the three French library branches and some immersion schools. Danielle Simard will meet grade 6 students and Michel Noël grade 9 students, from both French and French immersion schools.

“We appreciate the opportunity to have these well-known and respected children's authors visit our libraries because they can have a very positive influence on a child's love of reading,” said Minister Dover.

Danielle Simard writes and illustrates stories for the 4 to 14 years old. She visited many schools, libraries, book fairs and other literary events in Canada and Europe, sharing her passion with thousands of young readers. She has received many literary prizes, including the 2003 Governor General's Literary Award in the youth literature category for J’ai vendu ma soeur.

Michel Noël is a renowned writer and specialist of Quebec’s native culture. His literary production is impressive and varied : more than 50 books including easy books for children, arts and crafts books, plays, poetry, adult fiction or children literature. He has received many literary prizes including the 1997 Governor General's Literary Award in the youth literature category for Pien.

Soulières, Michel Quintin and Hurtubise HMH, some of the authors’ publishers, will provide authors’ books and bookmarks to be given as prizes at the readings.

For more information contact: Chantale Bellemare, French Services Librarian, PEI Provincial Library Service, 902-432-2667.