ROM Publishes New Children’s Book Molly & the Mastodon

TORONTO, Oct. 14, 2021 – Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) announces the publication of Molly & The Mastodon on October 25, 2021. The new children’s book from author Denise Dias and illustrator Tara Winterhalt tells the imaginative story of a spirited young girl and the giant-tusked, prehistoric mammal she conjures to life at the Museum.

Readers follow this unlikely pair on a journey of discovery as they explore the incredible diversity of animals on Earth and along the way uncover an assortment of fascinating facts about mammals living on land, in water, and air. With exquisite illustrations and evocative storytelling, Molly & The Mastodon will be enjoyed by booklovers of all ages.

“This captivating book celebrates the wonder and beauty of our natural world, and the magic in sharing it with someone you love,” says Nita Reed, ROM Trustee, Honorary Governor, and longtime Museum donor and volunteer, who funded the project. “It’s a wonderful way to support ROM and enjoy a small piece of it at home.” 

Molly & The Mastodon is published by ROM with the generous support of longstanding ROM supporters Nita and Don Reed in honour of their grandchildren Bennett, Kyle, Max, Molly, and Zella. The book features the Museum’s Reed Gallery of the Age of Mammals as well as the Reed Family Plaza in the cover art. 

The third children’s book to be published by ROM, Molly & The Mastodon once again brings together author Denise Dias and illustrator Tara Winterhalt. The pair have also collaborated on ROM publications Burton & Isabelle Pipistrelle and The Day the Ocean Disappeared. 

Molly & The Mastodon 
Published by Royal Ontario Museum with the generous support of Nita and Don Reed 
Author: Denise Dias 
Illustrator: Tara Winterhalt 
Ages 3-7 
Hardcover, 32 pages 
Retail price: $14.99.  
ISBN: 978-0-88854-527-5 
Available: October 25, 2021 at ROM, online and in major bookstores. All proceeds support the Museum.  

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