Parents hoping to encourage young readers to read more this summer won't want to miss a special family event with award-winning author/illustrator Brian Lies at Maine Coast Books on Tuesday, July 31 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lies, best known for his trio of bestselling bat picture books, is the illustrator and goodwill ambassador for the nation-wide 2012 "Dream Big--Read!" program, used in more than 14,000 libraries this summer.  Lies will read from his latest illustrated picture book MORE, with text by I.C. Springman (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt).  This fable, about a magpie and a mouse, offers a simple "less is more" tale about the value of friendship.

Brian will present MORE, show some of the original artwork and autograph books.  Children will have an opportunity to be photographed in a giant, stuffed nest (six feet in diameter) Lies designed and sewed especially for his tour. Other activities will include a make-your-own-nest craft and puzzles and a scavenger hunt all day with a drawing for special surprise gifts

Brian Lies is the author/illustrator of the New York Times bestsellers Bats at the Ballgame, Bats at the Library and Bats at the Beach. He has written and illustrated more than 25 books for children.

For more information visit www.mainecoastbookshop.com or call the store at 207-563-3207.