Join us for free family-friendly activities to celebrate the launch of Cat Nap, the newest book by Brian Lies, a Caldecott Honor–winning and New York Times best-selling author-illustrator. With lush paintings and intricately constructed 3D artwork, the book is a visual showstopper offering readers a page-turning cat and mouse chase, an introduction to famous works of art throughout history, an epic adventure story, and a homecoming.

All ages and abilities are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. See Visiting with Kids and Family for more information. Indoor events are free with a general admission ticket. No registration required.

Events and Activities

Book Reading

11–11:45 am
Remis Auditorium

Join author Brian Lies for a special reading of Cat Nap, the story about a sleepy kitten whose afternoon nap transforms into an epic journey through art, time, and history. Following the reading, hear from Brian about how he created the illustrations in the book and participate in a Q&A with the author.

Book Signing

12:15–1:15 pm
Riley Seminar Room, 156

Meet Brian Lies—the New York Times best-selling author-illustrator of Bats at the Beach, Bats at the Library, Bats at the Ballgame, Bats in the Band, and the Caldecott Honor book The Rough Patch—and have him sign a book! A selection of his books are available at the MFA Bookstore and Shop in the Linde Family Wing for Contemporary Art.

StoryWalk

10 am–4 pm
Outside around the Museum; starts on Huntington Avenue Lawn (rain location: starts in Lower Rotunda)

Walk around the Museum to read Cat Nap on a unique series of signage featuring pages of the book. The StoryWalk Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont, and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.

Launch Party for Scavenger Hunt: Cats

2:30–4 pm
Riley Seminar Room, 156

Join us in celebration of a new MFA Discovery cat-themed scavenger hunt! Stop by to grab a guide, a sweet treat, and a special Museum gift—and meet author-illustrator Brian Lies—before embarking on an adventure in the galleries to search for cats in works of art. While supplies last.

Visit early and enjoy a special gift from Zenni! The first 50 guests at the Launch Party receive a complimentary pair of Zenni’s EyeQLenz non-prescription glasses with Zenni ID Guard—lens technology designed to reduce digital eye strain and protect your privacy. Pick up an activity book, a bookmark, and an exclusive discount code for your next Zenni purchase!