Date Of Event: March 28, 2020
Location: Salem, Commons, Washington Square, Salem, MA
Universally Accessible: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Summary, 18 placards tell the story of Wizzil, a horrible hag who wants to add some excitement to her life. Without giving away too many spoilers, her parrot suggests she amuse herself by making someone else suffer. Hilarity ensues.
It definitely seems like this whole “socially distancing” thing is working. During my quick, socially distanced visit to Salem, MA, there was hardly a soul in the area. In fact, many people were probably curled up with a book.
Salem Public Library has brought the best of both worlds to the Salem Commons. The Storywalk, which was based on the children’s book Wizzil by William Steig and illustrated by Quentin Blake, was created so that families could enjoy the outdoors while still reading and laughing as a family.
The 18 signs are placed within the socially distanced spaces recommended by the government. They were prepared by the Children’s Room staff at the Salem Public Library.
If you do go, there are some ground rules. First, you must give each visitor a 6 foot zone of space for social distancing purposes. Visitors are also discouraged from touching the signs.
You can read the story below. I have I have posted the photos of the placards in the order of how they were placed at the common. You may have to expand the screen to read the lettering since it is so small. Or, better yet, go to the Commons and read it for yourself!
Below are some photos of Salem Saturday morning. It was very desolate and I was half expecting a zombie or some other undead being to come around one of the corners. I was in Salem after all. It was just me and this very hungry squirrel.
New England Nomad 
March 31st, 2020 at 2:52 am
If you stay at home, and don’t mix with other people, you can beat this, and keep your grandparents alive. It’s just a case of sticking to it.
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March 31st, 2020 at 7:26 am
Yes, if we’re patient and careful this will pass. I hope you’re well!
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March 31st, 2020 at 9:19 am
What an incredible idea!
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March 31st, 2020 at 3:44 pm
Yes, it’s very creative! I’m glad people have something safe to do during this time
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March 31st, 2020 at 4:51 pm
I’m going to pass it on to my friend the children’s librarian!
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March 31st, 2020 at 6:07 pm
Please do! I think any librarian would enjoy this!
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April 28th, 2020 at 1:54 pm
I occasionally go thru my list of people I follow and weed out those who haven’t posted in > 3 months. I realized you hadn’t posted in a while because you’ve been, like us, forced to stay in as much as possible. Looking forward to seeing your trips again once it’s safe to go out.
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April 28th, 2020 at 3:41 pm
Thank you Skyscapes for staying subscribed. Yes, I’ve been trying to stay inside as much as possible. Also, I had been helping out my mom (she had minor surgery last year and I had been staying with her to help her in her recovery. she is doing well now). I’m hoping to get out more soon. I hope you’re staying safe and healthy!
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