We Celebrate Poetry Month! Workshops and Readings for Everyone

Christine Potter offers a 2-workshop series and a reading; word play for children with Miss Mary Mac; and more . . .

Marking the 30th anniversary of National Poetry Month in 2026, The Sparkle Bookstore joins founding organization Academy of American Poets and others nationwide in celebrating contributions of poets and poetry to American culture.

Christine Potter

. . . has written and taught poetry in Rockland for years, notably teaching writing in the Clarkstown Schools and becoming poetry editor for Eclectica Magazine in 2024 (the magazine was, incidentally, founded in 1996, the same year as National Poetry Month, and also celebrates its 30th anniversary later this year). She has published widely, not only poetry but also YA fiction. She will lead two workshops at The Sparkle: “Making It New” (April 16) and “Good Morning, Good Morning!” (April 30). On May 1, she will read from and sign copies of her latest collection, Why I Don’t Take Xanax. Details below.

Mary McInerney (Miss Mary Mac)

. . . is a writer, educator, and lifelong advocate for student voice. Once a reluctant writer herself, discovering the joy of writing fueled her passion to reimagine how writing is taught. As a mother, teacher, and student of learning, she’s spent much of her life asking why so many young people feel shut out of writing—and how we can invite them in. Her new book, Creative Writing with Miss Mary Mac, is based on her years of teaching. Styled as a graphic novel, the book is designed for fun as well as inspiration. She will bring word play for children from her book to The Sparkle, along with a project to take home. Details below.

Hour-long writing workshops at The Sparkle are $10, no registration required, but response by Eventbrite appreciated. Fee waivers are available.

This month’s readings and signings are admission free.

~ Sunday April 12 at 2pm: Reading, Signing, and Word Play with Miss Mary Mac (free admission)

~ Thursday April 16 at 6:00 PM: Making It New - Poetry Workshop with Christine Potter (registration required)

~ Thursday April 30 at 6:00 PM: Good Morning, Good Morning - Poetry Workshop with Christine Potter (registration required)

~ Friday May 1 at 6pm: Reading and Signing with Christine Potter (free admission)