Family Interactive Tour and Author Talk: City of The Plague God

Virtual Family Interactive Tour and Author Talk: City of The Plague God with Sarwat Chadda

Did you know the ancient Mesopotamians had a god of plagues and fevers? His name was Nergal, and in author Sarwat Chadda’s novel for younger readers, Nergal comes to New York and the only ones who can stop him are thirteen-year-old Sik and his new friend Belet. The heroes will encounter Ishtar, the goddess of love and battle, the warrior Gilgamesh, and more characters from Mesopotamian mythology on their journey to save the city.

Family program participants will take a virtual tour of the Morgan’s collection of Mesopotamian art, and discover cuneiform writing, Mesopotamian monsters, and powerful amulets. Following the tour will be a live Q&A with author Sarwat Chadda, where participants can ask the author questions about his work and how he adapted ancient stories to modern times. City of The Plague God is part of the Rick Riordan Presents series of novels that spotlight world mythology.

Families are encouraged to read the novel in advance of the program, although it is not required. You may find an online excerpt of the book here.

The Morgan Library & Museum is partnering with Greenlight Bookstore to encourage families reading together. Greenlight Bookstore is offering a discount on City of The Plague God, available in hardback or as a preorder paperback, with promo code MORGANLIBRARY15, through September 25, 2021. Thank you for supporting independent booksellers.

Family programs are designed for adults and children to enjoy together. Recommended for children ages 7-14. No experience required.

Please note that the program will take place online. After registering, participants will receive a confirmation e-mail with instructions on how to participate using Zoom. We ask that you download the app in advance for the best user experience.

Sunday, September 19, 2:00-3:15pm

Tickets: Free; limited availability, advance registration is required.