UW News

November 13, 2008

Children’s author Gerald McDermott to speak on ‘Heroes and Tricksters’

Award-winning children’s author, illustrator and filmmaker Gerald McDermott will speak on Heroes & Tricksters: A Mythic Journey on Nov. 19 lecture as part of the Spencer Shaw Lecture Series.

In his presentation, McDermott will illustrate how archetypal tales of the hero and the trickster can guide children and adults on the path of life and connect us with our common humanity.

Through his bold, graphic renderings of timeless tales from around the world, McDermott communicates his deep understanding of the transformative power of myth. His work is an evocation of the human quest for unity and completeness. His colorful, magic, stylized figures and abstract motifs combine ancient imagery with contemporary design. A Caldecott Medal winner, McDermott has penned such beloved tales as Anansi the Spider, Arrow to the Sun and Papagayo: The Mischief Maker.

The Spencer Shaw Lecture Series has featured renowned storytellers and children’s writers for more than 20 years. Shaw, a professor emeritus at the UW’s Information School and one of the nation’s most respected children’s scholars, attends these lectures himself and is available for questions at an open reception following the event.


The lecture begins at 7 p.m. in 220 Kane. To register, visit www.UWalum.com or call the UW Alumni Association at 206-543-0540.