Home to the largest collection of storybook sculptures in America, according to its website, is Abilene, Texas. Known as the “Storybook Capital of America,” lies this charming town waiting to unlock pages of children’s literary favorites among beloved statues lining the path’s of its storybook garden.
“In 2015, the 84th Legislature of the State of Texas designated Abilene as the official Storybook Capital of Texas for its efforts to celebrate literary works for children, which hold a cherished place on the bookshelves of Texas families,” shares its website.
Storybook garden showcases the beloved characters from children’s books throughout its downtown garden which comes to life via the towns free “Storybook Sculptures Audio Tour iPhone app,” shares the January 2018 issue of “Texas Highways.” The tour allows you to listen to stories from the various books as you travel along its path.
“The city built a museum that was the first of its kind in the nation called the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature,” shares its website. This was then followed by the popular and beloved sculptures such as The Lorax, The Grinch, Horton Hears a Who, Cat in the Hat, Jack Frost, The Three Little Kittens and plenty more just waiting to unlock the childhood memories we all hold fondly.
You can become a part of this children’s wonderland of characters as you immerse your self in the city’s annual “Children’s Art & Literacy Festival.” This year festivities are set to open its “once upon a time” adventures on June 7-9th. Some of the fun you can expect includes a children’s parade, writing workshops, puppet shows, and more. An original and captivating array of adventures await you to join in the story.
For more about “The Storybook Capital of Texas,” and to mark your calendar for its annual festival visit storybookcapitalofamerica.com.
