Reading & Q&A With Doug Wechsler

We’re teaming up with The Chestnut Hill Conservancy to welcome author Doug Wechsler for a free, family-friendly book reading on Sunday, October 4th at 10AM.

Wechsler is a noted local children’s author and a photographer, dubbed “The Darwin of Chestnut Hill” for his more than 25 children’s books. His latest book, “Bizarre Bugs, Toads, and Butt-Breathers,” is a nature-oriented educational experience designed for young readers. Wechsler will read from three of his works, “The Hidden Life of a Toad”, “Bizarre Bugs”, and “Blowholes, Book Gills, and Butt-Breathers: How Animals Get Their Oxygen”, sharing stories about the fascinating (and at times, hilarious) wildlife found throughout the Wissahickon watershed and beyond. The reading will be followed by a Q&A for curious young nature lovers.

Kids can additionally enjoy stickers and a scavenger hunt to explore Chestnut Hill’s landscape, known as Philadelphia’s “Garden District.”

This event is part of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s annual Night of Lights programs. Night of Lights 2026 programming is supported in part by the Philadelphia City Fund.