Splash into the world of Misty and Marguerite Henry with Author Susan Friedland at the Chincoteague Island Library July 31 at 1:00 PM
The Chincoteague Island Library is delighted to welcome author Susan Friedland for a special event on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Friedland, author of Marguerite, Misty and Me—will present an engaging talk on the life and legacy of Marguerite Henry, whose classic tale Misty of Chincoteague brought national attention to the island and its famous ponies.
In her talk, Friedland will share:
● Fascinating stories from Marguerite Henry’s early life and writing career
● Insights into Henry’s riding experiences and creative process
● Rare vintage photographs and behind-the-scenes anecdotes
“After rereading my childhood copy of Misty, I went down the rabbit hole to uncover Marguerite’s backstory. I traveled over 8,000 miles from California to Chincoteague and Milwaukee to Minnesota to follow in her footsteps. I discovered Marguerite’s life story was as exciting as the stories she wrote,” Friedland said.
Besides conducting research at the University of Minnesota where Henry’s personal papers are archived, Friedland met with and recorded stories of individuals, who as children were Henry’s neighborhood friends and attended Misty’s birthday parties in Wayne, Illinois where the pony lived in Henry’s backyard for about a decade starting in 1946.
After the library presentation, Friedland will head to a book signing and meet-and-greet at nearby Sundial Bookstore. Attendees can purchase signed copies of Marguerite, Misty and Me as well as a special young reader edition—ideal for ages 8 to 12, containing vintage photos, timelines—and connect with the author in person.
Event Details:
• When: Thursday, July 31, 2025
1:00 p.m.—Talk at Chincoteague Island Library
2:00 p.m.—Book signing at Sundial Bookstore
• Where:
Chincoteague Island Library
4077 Main Street, Chincoteague Island, VA 23336
Sundial Bookstore
4206 Main Street, Chincoteague Island, VA 23336
About Susan Friedland
Susan Friedland is a writer and lifelong horse lover, inspired by the works of Marguerite Henry. Her book, Marguerite, Misty and Me, traces Henry’s enduring legacy and was shaped by multiple research trips to Chincoteague Island. Susan co-hosts the Barn Banter by Horse Illustrated podcast and shares her adventures with her Thoroughbred, Tiz a Knight, at her award-winning blog, saddleseekshorse.com.
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