Phoenix Books

We invite budding scientists, concerned citizens, and naturalists-at-heart to learn about Vermont's Amphibian Monitoring Program. This is a perfect opportunity to get hands-on experience, become educated about Vermont's amphibian population, and learn how to assist in their protection/preservation.

Space is limited; please contact Rachel at rachel@phoenixbooks.biz or 872-7111 to reserve a spot. This demonstration involves delicate critters, so is best for ages 5 and older.

Please join us in welcoming Vermont's own Howard Frank Mosher!  Howard will give a slideshow and talk, and will read from his new book The Great Northern Express: A Writer's Journey Home at Memorial Hall here in Essex Junction.  A cover charge of $5 will be credited toward a book purchase.

Michael Hastings will visit Phoenix to speak about his new book, The Operators: The Wild and Terrifying Inside Story of America's War in Afghanistan.

General Stanley McChrystal, the innovative, forward-thinking commanding general of international and U.S. forces in Afghanistan, was living large. He was better known to some as Big Stan, M4, Stan, and his loyal staff liked to call him a "rock star." During a spring 2010 trip across Europe to garner additional allied help for the war effort, McChrystal was accompanied by journalist Michael Hastings of Rolling Stone. For days, Hastings looked on as McChrystal and his staff let off steam, partying and openly bashing the Obama administration for what they saw as a lack of leadership. When Hastings's piece appeared a few months later, it set off a political firestorm: McChrystal was ordered to Washington, where he was fired unceremoniously.

All skill levels welcome.  See you there!

Come meet the artists at our reception to celebrate the opening of a new group art show. Light fare provided. Reception is open to the public. Join us for a fun evening and check out some local talent.  Featured artists will include Brittany Foster, fiber artist Donna McDermid, photographers Paige Dunbar and Eric Fitzgerald, graphic artist Rick Evans, and the artists of the Essex Art League. 

Paige Dunbar
Paige Dunbar is a junior at Essex High School. Due to her love of photography, she took a photo class last year. Her work has been on display at another local venue, the Dark Room Gallery in Essex Junction. Under the supervision of Ken Signorello, she framed her own pictures with uv antireflection glass. Paige’s artwork focuses on the natural world in her community and travels. She also has a line of greeting cards available.

Throughout the end of the winter, The Gallery at Phoenix Books will host a group art show featuring the work of Brittany Foster, fiber artist Donna McDermid, photographers Paige Dunbar and Eric Fitzgerald, and graphic artist Rick Evans. 

Paige Dunbar
Paige Dunbar is a junior at Essex High School. Due to her love of photography, she took a photo class last year. Her work has been on display at another local venue, the Dark Room Gallery in Essex Junction. Under the supervision of Ken Signorello, she framed her own pictures with uv antireflection glass. Paige’s artwork focuses on the natural world in her community and travels. She also has a line of greeting cards available.

Please visit to enjoy over two dozen local artists' works of art. This show, an artist's choice exhibit, will run through the end of February.

All of the artwork is original work, and a variety of mediums are represented.

The featured artists are members of the Essex Art League, whose goal is to support the appreciation and creation of regional artwork. Members meet monthly to share ideas and information, create and implement programs, and participate in show venues.

All skill levels welcome.  See you there!