Tickets still available for evening event with 'Wicked' author Gregory Maguire

The Arlington Heights Memorial Library invites the public to join the celebration of all things fairy tale by reserving a free ticket to a very special evening with Gregory Maguire, the best-selling author of Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. Through The Wicked Years novels, best-selling Confession of an Ugly Stepsister and his newest novel, After Alice, Maguire puts his unique own twist on classic tales.

Registration is open to Arlington Heights residents only through February 21. Seats are limited. On Monday, February 22, tickets will open to all, as space allows. Register at the library's Info Desk, 847-392-0100 or at www.ahml.info.

Though best known as a fantasy writer, Maguire has also written children's novels, picture books, science fiction and historical fiction. Learn about his combined talents for writing and performance in this intimate exploration of imagination with the author from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell, Arlington Heights. Doors will open with a preshow reception at 6 p.m. A question-and-answer session and book signing will follow his presentation.

Maguire's visit is just one of many fairy-tale themed programs planned by the library through the end of March 2016. Kids' World is abuzz with visitors exploring Once Upon a Time … Exploring the World of Fairy Tales, an interactive play exhibit for children ages 3 to 10 that runs through March 26. The exhibit is made possible by a gift from the Friends of the Library.

To learn more about the Once Upon a Time exhibit and fairy tale programs for all ages, including family movie screenings nights, puppet shows and plays, book discussions, crafts and more, visit ahml.info/fairytales.