Birney Family Scoring on Broadway, Hollywood, Literary World
Renowned Children's Book Author Betty Birney Sked Nov. 15 at Dow Library
November 9, 2008
By: Dave Rogers
(L/R) Betty Birney, children's author slated at Midland -- Reed Birney stars in Blasted and Frank Birney in Changeling
The name Birney has historical significance in Michigan, especially Bay City, from the family patriarch James Gillespie Birney.
Now, 201 years after death of the political leader in 1857, his descendants are making their own kind of history.
Actor Reed McDowell Birney is currently the toast of Broadway in the sensational play "Blasted." Reed Birney also plays Mayor Cryer in "Changeling," a heavily promoted film about a lost boy in the 1920s.
Frank Birney, a character actor with long credits in television, plays Judge William Howe in "Boston Legal," portrayed Judge Warren West in 14 episodes of "The Practice" both on tv, and hits the silver screen as Sir Jim in "Wicked Lake," a 2008 movie thriller.
Meanwhile, Frank's wife, Betty Birney, author of children's books, is headed in to Midland for an appearance at the Grace A. Dow Memorial Library on Saturday, Nov. 15.
She will be featured in the Battle of the Books. "Fourth and fifth graders are invited to take part in this very popular program," states Library Director . "We'll announce our booklist which includes a variety of fun, interesting and notable books at our kick-off on Saturday, November 15. After kickoff, students can form teams to share reading and related activities."
We found out about the world according to a furry little hamster named Humphrey. But what does Humphrey think about friendship, and trouble and surprises? Find out as we welcome Betty Birney to kick-off the 2008 - 2009 Battle of the Books! Students, parents and teachers, and anyone interested in hearing and meeting a hamster's favorite author are invited to either the 10 AM or 2 PM program.
Following the program, Barnes and Noble will sell copies of Ms. Birney's books, which she will sign, along with the library's Battle Book selections. They do accept credit cards.
Battle Books will be available for check-out after 3 p.m. Saturday, November 15. Attendees of the 10 a.m. program will be able to check out Battle books immediately following that program.