Family Interactive Tour and Author Talk: A Cloud of Outrageous Blue with Vesper Stamper

Richly colored paints, inlaid gold, and fantastic hand-drawn illustrations are incredible survivors in manuscripts of what was otherwise a bleak time for most of Europe. The Middle Ages often summons images of famine, war, and the unrelenting recurrence of the Black Plague, but people still found solace in faith, in nature, and in stunning works of art and literature.

In Vesper Stamper’s richly illustrated young adult novel, sixteen year old Edyth is sent to live among nuns at a priory and work in the scriptorium hand-painting illuminated manuscripts. Here her unique affliction– synesthesia—a condition in which information meant to stimulate one of your senses stimulates several of them—helps her to become a hero by discovering the truth in the colors she works with every day.

Family program participants will take a virtual tour of the Morgan’s new exhibition Imperial Splendor: The Art of the Book in the Holy Roman Empire, ca. 800–1500 and learn about medieval illuminated manuscripts while drawing connections to the book and reflecting on its themes. Following the tour will be a live Q&A with author Vesper Stamper, where participants can ask the author questions about her work as an author and illustrator.

Families are encouraged to read the novel in advance of the program, although it is not required. An excerpt from the book can be read on the Random House website.

The Morgan Library & Museum is partnering with Greenlight Bookstore to encourage families reading together. Greenlight Bookstore is offering a discount on A Cloud of Outrageous Blue with promo code OUTRAGEOUSBLUE, through November 21, 2021. Thank you for supporting independent booksellers.

Family programs are designed for adults and children to enjoy together. Recommended for teens ages 13+. 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.