Category: Cover Stories

From the 1981 classic On Golden Pond to parts of this year’s Oscar-winning Sound of Metal, New Hampshire has been a filming location for a number of movies. Since 1998, the New Hampshire Film Bureau has assisted filmmakers eyeing the Granite State for their films, serving as the connection between them and the state government and communities. But if the latest state budget proposal is approved, that resource may not be around for much longer. People from the New Hampshire film industry discussed what’s at stake if the Film Bureau is dissolved, and why New Hampshire is a film destination worth fighting for.

The reel deal

Gov. Chris Sununu’s proposed state budget for 2022-2023 includes the defunding and elimination of the New Hampshire Film Bureau, currently allocated a $123,000 annual budget.

The budget proposal has been passed by the House and now heads to the Senate, which is scheduled to meet on June 4. If it’s approved, New Hampshire will become one of only five states without an official state film office.

Matt Newton, the New Hampshire Film Bureau’s director and only employee, declined to comment on the office’s future and directed media inquiries to the Division of Travel and Tourism Development, which emailed a statement on behalf of Business and Economic Affairs Commissioner Taylor Caswell:

“While the workload of the Bureau of Film and Digital Media has declined for the past several years, the Governor’s budget proposal ensures that the Division of Travel and Tourism Development will retain sufficient resources to meet the needs of New Hampshire’s film industry,” the statement said. “Further, this consolidation of services ensures a more comprehensive approach, spearheaded by the Department of Business and Economic Affairs, to promote the development of New Hampshire’s travel and tourism industry.”

Jack Northcott, a Hollis resident and senior director of sales at Avid Technology, a media production software company in Burlington, Mass., said he is skeptical that the Division of Travel and Tourism Development will continue the Film Bureau’s work.

“That claim … is very disingenuous, because they aren’t articulating whether or not the Film Bureau will remain in name and the Film Bureau website will still be supported,” he said. “Will there be somebody there who actually cares?”

When the Hippo pressed the Division of Travel and Tourism Development for confirmation that the “consolidation of services” would mean the elimination of the “New Hampshire Film office” in name and as a direct point of contact for filmmakers, Division of Travel and Tourism Development communications manager Kris Neilsen replied via email, “Correct, [filmmakers] will reach out to the NH Travel and Tourism office.”

Tim Messina of Studio Lab, a video production studio in Derry, also expressed concern about the Department’s ability to take over the Film Bureau’s role.

“[How is] someone from the Travel and Tourism department, who doesn’t have any experience in our industry … going to [answer] very industry-specific questions that come up?” he said.

The benefits of having a film office

Tim Messina of Studio Lab said he utilized the Film Bureau a few weeks ago when a filmmaker friend of his asked him where to get permits for shooting at Mount Washington.

“The Film office … told me exactly where to go and who to talk to,” he said. “It was a less-than-five-minute conversation.”

Tyler York, senior producer at Big Brick Productions in Manchester, works on commercial and brand video content and short form documentary-style videos for regional, national and international clients, such as New Hampshire Lottery, iRobot, Hasbro Gaming, Red Bull, ESPN, Fox Sports, Chobani and more. He said state film offices are “crucial” to his job as they provide a connection between the film industry and state legislators, municipalities, police forces and town and city officials.

“We do productions all over, and when we’re shooting [in another state], we traditionally reach out to that state’s film office for help with sourcing location permits and things like that.”

Chris Stinson, a producer and line producer at the Portsmouth-based film production company Live Free or Die Films, said he also has depended on the services provided by state film offices for his work. Stinson worked as the line producer for the 2020 film Sound of Metal, which includes a driving scene shot on New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway. The film was nominated for six Oscars and won two — one for Film Editing and one for Sound — at the April 25 awards ceremony.

Stinson recalled a time when representatives from the Massachusetts Film Office joined him at a meeting where he pitched Massachusetts as a shooting location for the 2019 film Knives Out.

“[The filmmakers] were considering shooting it in London, but we convinced them to come to Massachusetts,” he said. “If the Massachusetts Film Office hadn’t helped, that movie definitely would have gone to London.”

In the 2018 Hippo story “Going professional: How to take your creative hobby to the next level,” Newton explained how the Film Bureau assisted and advised filmmakers in hiring a crew, securing a shooting location, and marketing and distributing their films. The Bureau also maintains an online directory of local hireable film crew and film services, including camera operators, directors, editors, casting and talent resources, hair and makeup and wardrobe professionals, sound specialists, stunt people, production managers and assistants, payroll and production accountants, public relations and more.

The Bureau’s primary job is acting as the official liaison between filmmakers and New Hampshire communities and state government, to help filmmakers find shooting locations and acquire permits necessary for road closures and access to public spaces.

“If you have a small film, closing a road might sound like a big deal,” Newton said in the 2018 story, “but working with [the Film Bureau] lends more credibility to your project. We can open doors that you might not be able to open by yourself.”

Losing a NH booster

Northcott said the state has offered little explanation about the reasoning behind the proposal to eliminate the Film Bureau.

“We just haven’t been able to get a lot of feedback or dialogue from them,” he said.

Having worked with more than 30 state film offices over the course of his career, Stinson said he sees no reason New Hampshire wouldn’t be able to maintain its film office.

“A lot of these other states’ film offices don’t have a big budget either; a lot of them are one-person offices, too,” he said, “but they’re still incredibly enthusiastic about bringing productions to their state. New Hampshire doesn’t even offer that.”

Ian Messina, director of virtual production at Studio Lab (and Tim Messina’s nephew), said he, too, is at a loss.

“New Hampshire has so many different pockets of small businesses, and filmmaking is one of them, so why shouldn’t it have the same resources that other businesses have?”

York said he believes a lack of awareness is to blame.

“Many people, [including] legislators, don’t know that there’s a film industry happening here and that there’s potential and opportunity for the film industry to grow here,” he said.

Losing the Film Bureau would be detrimental to the state’s film industry in a big way, Tim Messina said.

“Without [a film office], we just lose our sense of direction as a state in the film world,” he said. “We can make it work [independently] to an extent, but the state is still a big part of it.”

A fear being echoed by many people in the New Hampshire film industry is losing credibility that comes with having an official state film office.

“It’s so much cleaner when you can say, ‘I’m calling from the New Hampshire Film office,’ as opposed to, ‘Hey, I’m Joe Schmo off the street, and we have a production coming to town,’” York said.

Eliminating the Film Bureau may also disadvantage young and aspiring filmmakers looking to stay in New Hampshire, Northcott said, or prompt them to move to another state that has more opportunities and a more prominent support system for filmmakers. As a member of the advisory committee for a Nashua-based film education program for high school students, Northcott said he’s seeing it happen already.

“You have all these students who are just dying to get into television and film production, but there’s no outlet for them locally, or they’re very limited in what they can do,” he said. “WMUR can only hire so many people.”

Location, location

While New Hampshire remains largely untouched by out-of-state filmmakers, its southern neighbor boasts one of the most active and fastest growing film landscapes in the country.

“There are four or five movies and TV shows filming in Massachusetts as we speak,” Stinson said. “It just seems crazy to me that New Hampshire gets zero of that action.”

One of Massachusetts’ biggest selling points as a film destination — and the reason New Hampshire is often overlooked — is the 25 percent tax credit it awards filmmakers, Stinson said. New Hampshire, though it offers no tax incentives, has other perks that filmmakers would value just as much as, if not more than, Massachusetts’ tax credit, he said, but most filmmakers never take the time to research New Hampshire or never even consider New Hampshire as an option in the first place.

“They see ‘25 percent tax credit’ and that’s all they’re focused on,” Stinson said.

While filming Knives Out in Massachusetts, Stinson said, the crew stayed in a mansion for three weeks, costing them $500,000. If they had been filming in New Hampshire, he said, he is “absolutely sure” they could have found a comparable mansion for between $50,000 and $100,000.

“By going to a cheaper location you’ve saved 50 percent more money than [you would have saved] with the 25 percent tax credit in Massachusetts,” Stinson said, adding that lodging in New Hampshire usually costs 30 to 50 percent less than in Massachusetts.

Crews would also save money on permitting fees and on parking, which could cost up to $3,000 or $4,000 in Massachusetts, compared to between $500 and $1,000 in New Hampshire.

Massachusetts’ robust film office is also a major contributor to the success of its film industry, York said — and New Hampshire should take notes.

“With Massachusetts performing at the caliber that they are, it’s disappointing and, in my opinion, shortsighted,” York said, “for New Hampshire to forego a film office at this point.”

Banding together

According to Tim Messina, more than 100 people who work or have an interest in New Hampshire’s film industry have signed on to a grassroots effort to preserve the state film office in some capacity, including acclaimed documentary filmmaker and New Hampshire resident Ken Burns.

“If it does have to [merge with] another department, one of the best solutions would be to create a board of directors — people who are in the industry and understand it — that can help administrate what that [merge] would look like and how it’s going to function,” Tim Messina said.

Some members of the group have been volunteering their time and resources to improve the Film Bureau since before it was at risk of being eliminated.

Stinson, for example, has spent more than a year independently creating a visual database of filming locations in New Hampshire — a project normally shouldered by a state film office, he said.

“When a filmmaker is considering shooting in a state, they go to that state’s film office website to look at film location pictures, so having a location database is huge,” he said, “and if I have to do it on my own, I’m willing to do that.”

Northcott said the group has even gone so far as to offer to fund the film office themselves.

“There are a lot of people who are interested [in] and supportive of the Film Bureau,” he said. “I know we could raise the private funding easily.”

The Division of Travel and Tourism Development “gave no response and had no interest” in the proposition, Northcott said. (Reached shortly before press time, a spokesperson for the Division said they would need time to formulate a comment and couldn’t do so by press time.)

Tim Messina is also seeking the general public’s support in preserving the Film Bureau. On the Studio Labs website (studiolab.community/post/helpsavenhfilm), he outlined a four-point strategy that includes reaching out and advocating to the governor, the Senate Finance Committee, local senators and film and media organizations in the state. He urged advocates to explain how the issue affects them and include financial data about the film industry’s contribution to the state’s creative economy.

New Hampshire film highlights
Here’s a look at some of the most notable movies that were filmed or partially filmed in New Hampshire, according to IMDB and Wikipedia.

• The Thomas Crown Affair, 1968, starring Steven McQueen and Faye Dunaway, scenes filmed in Salem
• On Golden Pond, 1981, starring Henry Fonda, Katharine Hepburn and James Fonda, scenes filmed at Squam Lake in Holderness
• The Good Son, 1993, starring Macaulay Culkin and Elijah Wood, scenes filmed at Mirror Lake in Jackson
• Jumanji, 1995, starring Robin Williams and Kirsten Dunst, scenes filmed in Keene
• The Skulls, 2000, starring Joshua Jackson and Paul Walker, scenes filmed at Dartmouth College in Hanover
• The Brown Bunny, 2003, starring Vincent Gallo and Chloë Sevigny, scenes filmed in Keene
• Live Free or Die, 2006, starring Aaron Stanford, Paul Schneider and Zooey Deschanel, shot in Claremont
• Sound of Metal, 2020, starring Riz Ahmed and Olivia Cooke, scenes filmed on New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway. Chris Stinson of Portsmouth served as line producer for the film.

How to rediscover classics,
find new titles that interest you and have more fun with reading

If it’s been years since you’ve picked up a book (no judgment!), the idea of reentering the vast and always-expanding world of literature can be overwhelming. But with genres that cover everything from werewolves to World War II and reading formats that accommodate all kinds of lifestyles, becoming a reader is easier than ever.

“Every child is an artist, but as they get older, most people stop drawing, stop coloring, and I think it can be the same way with reading,” said Michael Herrmann, owner of Gibson’s Bookstore in Concord. “Every child loves stories, but somewhere along the line, we lose that. The secret here is to get back in touch with that inner child and ask yourself, what kinds of stories do I want to hear now?”

Find a book

Caitlin Loving, head of circulation at Bedford Public Library, said one of the most common hang-ups people have about reading is simply not knowing what to read.

“There is such a wealth of options, which is nice, but it can also be really overwhelming and intimidating,” Loving said, “and if it’s been a while [since you’ve read], you may not know what you’d like.”

Books based on or related to your favorite films and TV series can be a great starting point, Loving said, as they allow you to dive deeper into a story or subject that you know you’re interested in.

“Even though you know what the book is about, there’s often a lot that gets left out [in the screen adaptation], so reading the book can really add to your enjoyment,” she said.

Another popular gateway to reading is nonfiction, said Emily Weiss, head of reference services at Bedford Public Library. You can explore a memoir or autobiography by a person who’s always fascinated you, or a self-help guide that addresses an area of your life that you want to improve, or a commentary on a social or political issue that you’re passionate about.

“If you have someone who is a reluctant reader but really likes sports, a nonfiction book about a sports team or a biography on an athlete will oftentimes draw them in,” Weiss said.

“When I read nonfiction, I can’t stop talking about what I’ve read to other people,” added Susan Harmon, information and technology librarian at Manchester City Library. “It’s a great way to learn more about something interesting or weird, or to become an expert on a subject or hobby of some kind.”

If reading a whole book feels like too much to start, try a book of poetry, short stories, a graphic novel or a novella instead.

“Warm up your reading muscles first … and start small,” said Rachel Stover, technical services assistant at Manchester City Library. “If you haven’t read anything in a while, something too long might get discouraging.”

There’s no shame in reading a young adult or children’s book either, said Sarah St. Martin, systems librarian for GMILCS, Inc., a nonprofit consortium of public and academic libraries in New Hampshire,

“Don’t limit yourself,” she said. “There are so many great children’s stories out there, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t read them.”

“It truly is a golden age for young adult literature,” Herrmann added. “These are books that have great stories and characters … and don’t involve a huge time commitment.”

Podcasts, YouTube channels and magazines often provide recommendations of new titles, especially within a particular genre or niche.

“A lot of YouTubers talk about books they’ve read that go along with what they talk about on their channel, so that can be a really good springboard,” Harmon said.

For more personalized recommendations, reach out to family, friends and co-workers who are readers and know what your interests are, or talk with the staff at your local library or bookstore, who can give you recommendations based on your interests, reading level and goals.

“The people who work in those places are in love with books,” Herrmann said. “They’ll help connect you with the kinds of stories that you’re looking for.”

To read or not to read

Inevitably, you will pick up some books that looked promising at first glance but fall short of your expectations. At that point, you’ll need to decide whether you want to cut your losses early on, read a little more in hopes that it redeems itself, or finish the book regardless.

A good rule of thumb is to read at least 50 pages of a book before making a judgment, Loving said; if it hasn’t appealed to you by then, it’s probably never going to, but if you want to be sure that you aren’t missing out, take a look at the reviews.

“Oftentimes a review will say, ‘It picks up in the second half,’ or ‘The ending is worth it,’ and that can be helpful for deciding if you want to keep going with it or not,” Loving said.

The reverse is also possible:

“You might start a book and be really into it, and then, halfway through, it changes and you aren’t into it anymore,” St. Martin said.

Whether you’re 20 pages in or 200 pages in, if you know that the book just isn’t for you, it’s OK to put it to rest and move on to a book you find more enjoyable.

“A lot of people feel like they have to stick with a book, even if it’s not really capturing their attention, or else they feel like a failure,” Loving said. “I say life is too short for that.”

“There are hundreds of thousands of books that you could be reading, so why read something that’s not speaking to you?” Weiss added.

Make the time

Many people think they don’t have time to read, St. Martin said, but one easy way to find time is to identify the minutes spent checking the news or social media between tasks and use those minutes to read instead.

“Even just that short amount of time is a good way to start,” she said.

If you’re out and about, Loving said, bring a book or download an ebook on your phone so that you can squeeze some reading in while you’re in line at the grocery store, in the waiting room at the doctor’s office or taking public transportation.

“If you’re really hooked on a book, you’ll see that no amount of time is too short,” she said. “You’ll be looking for every little moment to read because you won’t want to put it down.”

If you are able to set aside a more consistent time for reading each day, Harmon said, try to make it an “experience ” — something you look forward to — as opposed to an obligation. One way to do that is by finding a quiet reading space with comfortable seating and sufficient lighting. A cup of hot cocoa, coffee, tea or another hot drink is also a nice touch.

“Minimize distractions,” Harmon said. “Go to the bathroom, eat a snack, get a drink and get comfy.”

Listen up

If a sit-down reading time isn’t feasible, audiobooks may be the best option because they allow you to multitask.

“You can listen while doing boring chores, cooking, exercising, walking, driving,” Harmon said. “It makes the time pass faster … and you get some reading done.”

Audiobooks aren’t just convenient; they’re another way for readers to experience a story.

“Some books you might enjoy more on audiobook, some you might enjoy better reading — it depends,” St. Martin said. “If you’re reading a book and you’re not getting a good feel for it, listening to it on audiobook may make the imagery and characters and everything come alive for you.”

The narrator can make or break an audiobook, Harmon said, so try listening to a sample first, if possible. An over-dramatic or silly voicing of the characters; unfamiliar or odd word pronunciations; or insufficient pop filtering during the recording can be a dealbreaker, Harmon said, but a well-narrated audiobook can be magical.

“There are books I listened to as audiobooks that have become some of my favorite books, simply because the narrator added so much to it,” she said. “He can bring the characters to life in a way that my imagination wouldn’t have done.”

Discover the classics

Local librarians shared 30 classic books that are worth reading outside of English class.

Recommended by Emily Weiss, head of reference services; Caitlin Loving, head of circulation; and Patricia Kline-Millard, reference librarian, at Bedford Public Library:

• Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

• Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

• Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

• A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

• War & Peace by Leo Tolstoy

• Moby Dick by Herman Melville

• Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

• Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison

• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

• White Fang by Jack London

• The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

• Dune by Frank Herbert

• Blackout by Connie Willis

Recommended by Susan Harmon, information and technology librarian, and Rachel Stover, technical services assistant, at Manchester City Library:

• Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger

• The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan

• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

• Beowulf by Unknown

• The Forever King by Molly Cochran

• Slaughterhouse 5 by Kurt Vonnegut

• Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller

• The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton

• Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert A. Heinlein

• Epic of Gilgamesh, author unknown, or Sin-Leqi-Unninni

• Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

• The Giver by Lois Lowry

• The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien

• The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

• Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Classics made easy

Caitlin Loving, head of circulation at Bedford Public Library, shared eight tips for enjoying classic books.

1. Simplify with an annotated edition. “They have detailed explanations of words, phrases, and period details that will enrich your understanding and reading experience,” Loving said. “For example, the annotated edition of Moby-Dick explains all of the obscure nineteenth-century whaling terms, which will definitely enhance your understanding of the story.”

2. Break it down. “Moby-Dick actually has short chapters, and it’s great to read it this way, and a lot of celebrated literature was serialized before it was collected in novel form,” Loving said.

3. Get academic. “You can take notes to keep characters straight and solidify your understanding, and you can look up words you don’t know,” Loving said. “If you’d like to get more formal about it, there are lectures available for free online.”

4. Read a nonfiction book about the book,such asOn Reading the Grapes of Wrath by Susan Shillinglaw, So We Read On: How The Great Gatsby Came to Be and Why It Endures by Maureen Corrigan, and Why Read Moby-Dick? by Nathaniel Philbrick. “These are often fairly short and can bring out aspects of the story you might have missed, or enhance your experience by diving deeper into it,” Loving said. “It’s almost like taking a class about the book or discussing it with a good friend.”

5. Listen to it on audiobook. “Hearing the story can provide greater comprehension,” Loving said, “and one advantage of classics is that there are often several different narrators to choose from so that you can select the voice that speaks to you.”

6. Try a graphic novel adaptation. “The visual aspect can add a lot to the experience,” Loving said. “While they are often abridged, it’s still a great way to read a classic, either to jog your memory, in addition to reading the full text, or just as a way to get to know more classics than you might have time for otherwise.”

7. Find a reading buddy. “You can gush about symbolism, commiserate over the extensive number of indistinguishable Russian surnames, and hold each other accountable for finishing books,” Loving said.

8. Don’t force it. “If you get 50 pages in … and you’re not into it, it’s okay to give up,” Loving said. “No one is grading you, and just because someone decided it belongs in the Western canon does not mean you are obligated to read it.”

New books for new bookworms

Susan Harmon, information and technology librarian at Manchester City Library, shared 10 approachable new releases that have been popular at the library.

• Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi

“A deeply ruminative story on depression, addiction, grief, loss, science, religion, faith and love. Readers were drawn in by the engaging and lyrical writing, and the strong character development. You’ll definitely cry.”

• The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson

“A well-researched, funny and deeply fascinating exploration of the human body. The writing style is conversational without making you feel talked down to.”

• The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich

“This historical novel is … [an] authentic story of the Native American experience and fight for rights. Readers loved the engaging storytelling, vivid characters, fascinating historical elements and atmospheric tone.”

• The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz by Erik Larson.

“A deeply compelling and immersive exploration of the day-to-day life of Churchill and his family during his first year as prime minister.”

• Solutions and Other Problems by Allie Brosh

“An offbeat, comedic, and engaging collection of illustrated, biographical essays on topics ranging from childhood and very bad pets to grief, loneliness and powerlessness in modern life.”

• The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

“Bennett has an incredible ability to weave together unforgettable characters, complex family drama, tragedy, romance, love and triumph. It’s a story of twin sisters who took two very different paths in life.”

• The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

“This book is both fast-paced and deeply philosophical. The fantastic setting allows the author to engage playfully and profoundly with some heavy topics, but you won’t get bogged down.”

• The Guest List by Lucy Foley

“This murder mystery will keep you guessing until the end. There is suspense and action from page 1. Each small detail could be a clue, and each of the characters are as guilty as the rest.”

• The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab

“This fantastic story explores a timeless theme: ‘Be careful what you wish for.’”

• The Last Traverse: Tragedy and Resilience in the Winter Whites by Ty Gagne

“An epic story of a daring rescue in the White Mountains [that] weaves the personal accounts of volunteer rescuers and survivors with fascinating weather and survival information. This well-researched page-turner will be hard to put down.”

Sarah St. Martin, systems librarian for GMILCS consortium of New Hampshire libraries, shared some other recently published titles that have appeal for newbie readers:

Celebrity memoirs

• The Answer Is … Reflections on My Life by Alex Trebek

• Is This Anything? by Jerry Seinfeld

• Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

From page to screen

• Battle of Brothers William and Harry— The Inside Story of a Family in Tumult by Robert Lacy and Finding Freedom: Harry and Meghan and the Making of a Modern Royal Family by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand (for fans of The Crown on Netflix)

• Return to Virgin River by Robyn Carr (Virgin River on Netflix)

• 28 Summersby Elin Hilderbrand (based on the film Same Time Next Year)

• Ready Player Two by Ernest Cline (sequel to Ready Player One book and film)

Help yourself

• Personality Isn’t Permanent: Break Free from Self-Limiting Beliefs and Rewrite Your Story by Benjamin Hardy

• The New Rules of Aging Well: A Simple Program for Immune Resilience, Strength, and Vitalityby Frank Lipman

• Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day by Jay Shetty

Major page-turners

• All the Devils are Here by Louise Penny

• The Boy from the Woods by Harlan Coben

• Masked Prey by John Sandford

• One by One by Ruth Ware

• Walk the Wire by David Baldacci

Reading reads

Still stumped on what to read? Find inspiration in these “books about books” recommended by Emily Weiss, head of reference services at Bedford Public Library.

• 1,001 Books to Read Before You Die: A Life-Changing List by James Mustich

• The Books That Changed My Life: Reflections by 100 Authors, Actors, Musicians, and Other Remarkable People edited by Bethanne Patrick

• Dear Fahrenheit 451: Love and Heartbreak in the Stacks. A Librarian’s Love Letters and Breakup Notes to the Books in Her Life by Annie Spence

• Howards End is on the Landing: A Year of Reading from Home by Susan Hill

• My Life with Bob: Flawed Heroine Keeps Book of Books, Plot Ensues by Pamela Paul

• Tolstoy and the Purple Chair: My Year of Magical Reading by Nina Sankovitch

• The Toni Morrison Book Club by Juda Bennett, Winifred Brown-Glaude, Cassandra Jackson, and Piper Kendrix Williams

• What to Read and Why by Francine Prose

Get excited about

Summer Camp!

Your guide to day camps and their plans for this summer

Summer camps are back in business, from special interest camps for art, sports, academic enrichment, STEM and nature, to general interest camps with all kinds of games and activities.

With many camps limiting their capacity this year to allow for social distancing, now is the time to register if you want to secure a spot. Here, you’ll find camps with registration open now as well as camps with tentative plans and details to be announced in the coming months.

ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT

Breakthrough Manchester at the Derryfield School 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, breakthroughmanchester.org

What: Breakthrough Manchester offers middle school summer programming for Manchester middle school students who might not have the resources for summer camp enrollment, delivering a combination of rigorous academics and fun, high-energy summer experiences. Who: Sixth-grade students attending a Manchester middle school, with priority to those who have limited access to summer enrichment opportunities When: Monday through Friday, dates offered June 21 through July 30 (registration deadline is April 1) Cost: Free (includes transportation to and from the school, as well as breakfast and lunch)

College Preparation; Find Your Voice – Jump Start Your College Essay The Derryfield School, 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, derryfield.org/summer/college-prep–academic-programs

What: This intensive writing workshop is designed to create a space for local high schoolers to begin the creative process of drafting their college essay. The class will be run in person (potential for a virtual option in August if there is interest) with time spent sharing essay drafts as a group and individual time writing with guidance from the teacher. On the final day of the workshop, a college admissions officer will provide the college perspective on the personal statement and read essay drafts. Who: Students entering grades 11 and 12 When: Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., dates offered June 7 to June 11 or Aug. 9 to Aug. 13 Cost: $375

Kumon Math & Reading Center 128 S. River Road, Bedford; 505 W. Hollis St., No. 103, Nashua, 897-6194; 95 Brewery Lane, No. 8, Portsmouth, 427-8456; kumon.com

What: Each center offers an independent learning program for kids to freshen up their skills in math and reading. Topics covered in math include counting and number sequencing, fractions, order of operations, algebra, trigonometry and calculus. Topics covered in reading include vocabulary, phonics, sentence building and reading comprehension. Who: Preschool through high school When: The Bedford center is open Monday and Thursday, from 3 to 6 p.m. The Nashua center is open Wednesday, from 4 to 7 p.m., and Friday, from 5 to 8 p.m. The Portsmouth center is open Tuesday and Thursday, from 2 to 6 p.m. Cost: Varies; call your individual center for details

SAT/ACT Preparation The Derryfield School, 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, derryfield.org/summer/college-prep–academic-programs

What: Students will learn the universal strategies and components of the SAT and ACT, followed by individual recommendations. Classes will include one-on-one time with the instructor and group work. Students may register for verbal sessions, math sessions, or both. Who: Students entering grades 11 and 12 When: Verbal sessions run Monday through Friday from 9:15 to 11:45 a.m., and math sessions run from 12:15 to 2:45 p.m., dates offered June 14 to June 18, July 12 to July 16, or Aug. 9 to Aug. 13 Cost: Ranges from $375 for half-day sessions to $650 for full-day sessions

Thursday Mini-Camps – “We the People: Beyond the Battlefield American Independence Museum, 1 Governors Lane, Exeter, 772-2622, independencemuseum.org

What: Campers will immerse themselves in hands-on 18th century life, discovering the stories of the men and women who fought and won the American Revolution and their stories beyond the battlefield. Up to four sessions are available. Who: Ages 8 to 12 When: Sessions run Thursdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered July 1, July 8, July 15 and July 22 Cost: $45 per day or $170 for all four sessions for museum members; $55 per day or $195 for all four sessions for non-members.

ART

Brainwave Summer Art and STEAM Camps The Nature of Things, 10 Groton Road, Nashua, 881-4815, tnotgroup.com/enrichment-center/summer.php

What: Themes include Canvas Painting & Drawing Plein Air, Duct Tape & Wire Sculpture Arts, Illustrate It, Lost Civilizations: From Culture-Building to Multimedia Museum Exhibit, Art Exploration: From Crayons to Pixels, Minecraft Art Heist: Widgets, Traps, & Redstone, Animate It, Start Up: Birth of a Brand, Lego Mind Palace, Cardboard Quest & Engineering, and Minecraft Around the Universe in 5 Days: Creative World Building & Architecture. Who: Ages 6 through 14 (varies by camp) When: Sessions run for one or two weeks, depending on the camp, Monday through Friday (no camp on Monday, July 5), 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 20 Cost: One-week camps range from $355 to $380, two-week camps are $725

Creative Ventures Gallery 411 Nashua St., Milford, 672-2500, creativeventuresfineart.com

What: Discovering Art in Nature camp includes drawing, painting and crafting a variety of art projects inspired by the outdoors. Who: Ages 8 through 12 When: Monday, Aug. 2, through Thursday, Aug. 5, 9 a.m. to noon Cost: $100

Kimball Jenkins School of Art 266 N. Main St., Concord, 225-3932, kimballjenkins.com/summer-arts-camp

What: Campers participate in indoor and outdoor art, history and engineering activities. Themes include Wild Animal Safari, Think Like an Artist, Fantasy & Fashion, Around the Campfire, Magic & Muggles, Travel the World and Bam! Wow! Pop Art! Who: Ages 6 through 17 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dates offered June 28 through Aug. 20 Cost: $275 per week ($255 for members)

Studio 550 Pottery Camp Studio 550 Community Art Center, 550 Elm St., Manchester, 232-5597, 550arts.com

What: Campers will learn to throw on a pottery wheel and hand-sculpt with clay. Who: Ages 10 through 16 When: Sessions will run Monday through Friday, with a morning option from 9:30 a.m. to noon, and an afternoon option from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Dates TBA. Cost: TBA

Wild Salamander Summer Camps Wild Salamander Creative Arts Center, 30 Ash St., Hollis, 465-9453, wildsalamander.com

What: A variety of art camps that work with a theme or concept, covering several art media, like painting, drawing, sculpting and fiber arts Who: Pre-K through Grade 8 When: Runs weekly, dates offered July 5 through Aug. 6 Cost: Registration will begin April 10; call for more details.

DANCE

Concord Dance Academy 26 Commercial St., Concord, 226-0200, concorddanceacademy.com/dance-camp

What: Camps teach a variety of dance styles, including tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, ballet, tumbling and musical theater. Other activities include arts and crafts, nature walks and scavenger hunts. Who: Ages 3 through 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a full day, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a half day, dates offered July 19 through July 23, and July 26 through July 30 Cost: $250 for full day week, $150 for half day week, or $50 per individual full day and $30 per individual half day

Southern New Hampshire Dance Theater 19 Harvey Road, Bedford, 637-4398, snhdt.org What: Programs include Preschool Princess camp and Prima Ballerina camp (girls ages 3 through 5), the Young Dancers’ Program (ages 6 through 12) for beginner and intermediate dancers, and a three-week Summer Intensive (ages 10+) for serious dancers looking to challenge themselves. Who: Girls ages 3 and up When: Preschool camps run Tuesday through Thursday, July 6 through July 15, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Young Dancers Program runs Monday through Friday, July 19 through July 23, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; Intensive runs Monday through Friday (with optional Saturday class), July 26 through Aug. 14, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cost: $160 for Princess and Prima Ballerina camp (or $290 for both), $175 for Young Dancers Program; Intensive ranges from $550 to $1,250, depending on number of weeks

FILMMAKING

Triple Threat Film Camp Londonderry Dance Academy, 21 Buttrick Road, Londonderry, 432-0032, triplethreattheatercamp.com/audition-intensive

What: Campers will learn the process of making a film, including writing; camera, sound and lighting; directing, and editing. Who: Ages 8 to 18 When: Monday, July 5, through Friday, July 9, 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Cost: $275

Movie Making Camp SEE Science Center, 200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400, see-sciencecenter.org/movie-making-camp

What: Campers will create an “Invention and Discovery” film using stop motion animation Lego bricks and minifigures. Working in groups, each camper will learn techniques of storyboarding, set design, construction, mini-figure casting and more. Who: Ages 8 to 12 When: Monday, Aug. 2, through Friday, Aug. 6, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Cost: $300

GENERAL INTEREST

Boys & Girls Clubs of Central New Hampshire Locations in Andover, Concord, Epsom, Holderness, Hopkinton, Laconia, Suncook, Sutton, Warner and Weare, 224-1061, centralnhclubs.org

What: Centers offer general camps and specialty camps, with activities like arts and crafts, water games, sports, field trips, cooking, hiking and more. Who: Grades 1 through 8 (varies depending on the camp location) When: Sessions run Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., dates offered June 14 through Aug. 27 Cost: Ranges from $135 to $200 per week

Boys & Girls Club of Manchester Camp Foster, Kidz Camp and Summer teen program, 36 Camp Allen Road, Bedford; Union Street Clubhouse, 555 Union St., Manchester; 625-5031, begreatmanchester.org

What: Activities at Camp Foster include swimming, playground time, arts and crafts, field games, athletics, hiking, boating and canoeing. Campers at Kidz Kamp (grades K and 1) and in the summer teen program (grades 8 through 12) will participate in similar activities and attend Camp Foster each afternoon. Who: Grades K through 12; membership required ($25) When: Sessions begin Monday, June 21, and end on Friday, Sept. 3 Cost: Ranges from $140 to $145 per week, plus a $25 membership fee ($10 membership fee only for the Summer Teen program).

Brentwood Recreation Day Camp 190 Route 125, Brentwood, hosted by the Brentwood Parks & Recreation Department, 642-6400, rec.brentwoodnh.gov/programs

What: Traditional day camp with activities like water and non-water games, arts and crafts, team-building activities, yoga and more. Who: Kids entering grades 1 through 6 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 20 (no camp on Monday, July 5) Cost: Call for details; registration is open now for both residents and non-residents, but is limited due to Covid-19 restrictions

Camp 603 507 Hall St., Bow, 568-8107, camp603.com

What: Activities include trips to Lake Winnisquam for waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing and other water sports; Mount Major, Mount Cardigan and other local mountains for days of hiking; and Hampton Beach for beach trips, swimming and more. Who: Ages 10 to 17 When: Weekly sessions run from Monday through Friday, dates offered July 6 through Aug. 6 (registration is limited) Cost: $660 for the first week, which is shortened due to the July 4 holiday; $825 for all other weeks

Camp Adventure Auburn Parks & Recreation, 483-5052, ext. 101, auburnnh.us/parks-and-recreation/pages/programs-events

What: During this full-day summer camp, kids will travel on multiple field trips throughout the state, including to the beach, lakes, water parks and more. Who: Kids entering grades 5 through 8 When: Two week-long sessions are offered, from Monday, July 26, through Friday, July 30, or from Monday, Aug. 2, through Friday, Aug. 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (meet at the Auburn Safety Complex at 55 Eaton Hill Road) Cost: $279 for the full week (registration is open now to Auburn residents and will open on May 1 to non-residents if space is available.) If camp needs to be canceled due to Covid-19 restrictions, refunds will be issued to all registrants.

Camp Babuck Amherst Parks & Recreation Department, 673-6248, amherstnh.myrec.com

What: A traditional day camp with activities like arts and crafts, group games and sports. Each week is themed; this year’s themes include Spooky, Science, Olympics, Survivor and The Big Top Who: Grades 1 through 7 When: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 13 Cost: $215 per week for Amherst residents and $255 per week for non-residents. Extended before or after care is also available.

Granite Base Camp 300 Blondin Road, Manchester, 617-615-0004, experiencebasecamp.org

What: This outdoor day camp features hands-on activities for kids ages 6 to 10, such as hiking, ecology, archery, crafts, swimming, fishing and more. Specialty camps are also available for ages 11 to 14, featuring activities like mountain biking, kayaking and fort building. Who: Ages 6 to 14 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 28 to Aug. 13 (each activity depends on the week) Cost: $330 per week

Camp Coolio New Boston Central School, 15 Central School Road, New Boston, hosted by the New Boston Parks & Recreation Department, 487-2880, newbostonnh.gov

What: Activities include sports, games, crafts and more. There are six themed weeks throughout the summer. This year’s themes are Harry Potter Week, Animal Planet Week, Disney Week, Wacky Water Week, Destination Imagination, and Camp’s Got Talent Week. Who: Kids ages 6 to 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., dates offered June 28 through Aug. 6 (no camp on Monday, July 5) Cost: $225 per week (Week 2 is $180, as it is a shortened week)

Camp Gottalikeachallenge Southern New Hampshire University, 2500 N. River Road, Manchester, 868-2140, campgottalikeachallenge.org

What: A fast-paced adventure in problem-solving, hands-on learning and challenging activities. Campers will develop their creativity, critical thinking, leadership, confidence and teamwork. Who: Grades 4 through 9 When: Day camp session runs Monday, July 12, through Friday, July 16, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Cost: $350 ($315 if you register by March 31)

Camp Kettleford 26 Camp Allen Road, Bedford, hosted by Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains, 888-474-9686, girlscoutsgwm.org

What: Set on 30 wooded acres on the shore of Sebbins Pond, this traditional day camp features swimming, boating, archery, cooking out, horseback riding, day trips and more. Who: Girls entering grades K to 8 When: Weekly day camp sessions are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., dates offered July 5 through Aug. 13. Cost: $245 per week, or $475 for a two-week session. Financial assistance is also available.

Camp Lincoln 67 Ball Road, Kingston, 642-3361, ymcacamplincoln.org, hosted by Southern District YMCA, sdymca.org

What: Activities at the traditional day camps include swimming, sports, nature exploration, arts and crafts, archery, boating, ropes courses, pottery and mountain biking. Who: Age 3 through grade 9 When: Sessions run various days/weeks, beginning the week of June 21 and running through Aug. 27. See website for details Cost: Varies; starts at $275 for a one-week session

Camp Lovewell The Nature of Things, 10 Groton Road, Nashua, 881-4815, camplovewell.com

What: Campers will enjoy hiking, field games and sports, swimming, skits and songs, kayaking, arts and crafts, a ropes course and more. Who: Ages 6 through 14 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, dates offered June 21 through Aug. 20 (no camp on Monday, July 5) Cost: Ranges from $350 to $360 per week; extended care is also available

Camp Ponemah Hampshire Hills Athletic Club, 50 Emerson Road, Milford, 673-7123, ext. 272, hampshirehills.com/camp-ponemah

What: Day camps feature activities like swimming, tennis, crafts, dance parties, playgrounds, trails, games and more. Who: Campers entering kindergarten through seventh grade When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 14 through Aug. 27 (no camp on Monday, July 5) Cost: Varies, depending on camper’s age, membership status and the session duration. Multi-sibling discounts are also available

Camp Seawood 350 Banfield Road, Portsmouth, hosted by Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains, 888-474-9686, girlscoutsgwm.org

What: Set among pine forests, wetlands and wildlife, this traditional day camp features archery, cooking out, horseback riding, day trips, nature hikes and more. Who: Girls in grades K through 8 When: Weekly sessions run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., dates offered July 5 through Aug. 20. Cost: Starts at $245 for a one-week session, or $475 for a two-week session. Financial assistance is available.

Camp Souhegan Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley, 56 Mont Vernon St., Milford, 672-1002, svbgc.org

What: Daily camp activities include swimming, theater arts, science and STEM programs, cooking, sports, dance and more, all centered around a different theme each week. Who: Grades K through 12 When: Weekly sessions run Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 23 Cost: $185 per week

Camp Starfish 12 Camp Monomonac Road, Rindge, 899-9590, campstarfish.org

What: Camp Starfish provides structured, nurturing and fun group programs to foster the success and growth of children with emotional, behavioral or learning problems. Who: Children ages 6 and up When: Sessions run various weeks, dates from June 22 to July 21 Cost: Rates vary depending on type of camp

Camp Witzel Bedford Parks & Recreation Department, 472-5242, bedfordreconline.com

What: A traditional day camp with activities like arts and crafts, sports, swimming and more. Each week is themed; this year’s themes include Animation Domination, Party in the USA, Edible Engineering, Jedi Training, Fun & Fitness, Aqua Adventure and Camper vs. Counselor Challenge Who: Ages 6 to 13 When: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 6 (no camp on Monday, July 5) Cost: Ranges from $115 to $245, depending on the number of days per week and the camper’s resident status, plus a one-time $25 registration fee

Candia Springs Adventure Camps Candia Springs Adventure Park, 446 Raymond Road, Candia, 587-2093, candiasprings.com/camp

What: Campers can enjoy all that the park has to offer by participating in themed weeks that focus on education, environment, exploration and leadership. Themes include Archery, Makers Week, Outdoor Living Skills and more. Who: Ages 8 to 12 When: Weekly sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 13 Cost: $249 per week

Concord Parks and Recreation City Wide Community Center, 14 Canterbury Road, Concord, 225-8690, concordnh.gov

What: Programs include Stay & Play Camp (grades 1 through 5), in which kids enjoy swimming, tennis, arts and crafts, field games and more; Adventure Camp (grades 3 through 8), in which campers will go on four-day trips to beaches, theme parks, hiking and kayaking destinations and more; Nature Camp (ages 5 to 8), in which campers can explore the park and create nature-based crafts); and Explorers Camp (ages 9 to 12), in which campers can explore the City of Concord’s trail system. Specialty camps in a variety of areas are also offered, such as soccer, basketball, TV/video production, dance, and STEM education Who: Grades 1 through 8 When: Most sessions run Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 13 (no camp on Monday, July 5); Nature Camp sessions run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and are based out of the Lodge at White Park in Concord Cost: $150 per week for Concord residents and $160 per week for non-residents for Stay & Play Camp; $190 per week for Concord residents and $200 per week for non-residents for Adventure Camp; $160 per week for Concord residents and $170 per week for non-residents for Nature Camp and Explorers Camp (except for the week of July 6 to July 9 for Explorers Camp, which is $128 for Concord residents and $138 for non-residents).

Educational Farm Camp Educational Farm at Joppa Hill, 174 Joppa Hill Road, Bedford, 472-4724, theeducationalfarm.org

What: Campers will learn about animals, work in the garden, take nature hikes and help with farm chores. Who: Ages 4 through 11 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, half days for ages 4 and 5 from 9 a.m. to noon, and full days for ages 6 through 11 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 13 Cost: $135 per half-day week, $250 per full-day week

Naticook Summer Day Camp Wasserman Park, 116 Naticook Road, Merrimack, hosted by Merrimack Parks & Recreation, 882-1046, merrimackparksandrec.org/naticook-day-camp

What: Campers enjoy swimming, boating, drama, group games, archery, nature exploration, sports, arts and crafts, special events and more. Who: Grades Pre-K through 9 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 20. Extended care is available from 7 to 8 a.m. and from 4 to 6 p.m. Cost: $240 per week for residents, $290 per week for non-residents. Additional fees apply for extended care.

New Hampshire SPCA New Hampshire Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Learning Center, 104 Portsmouth Ave., Stratham, 773-5730, nhspca.org

What: All camp activities are animal-themed, featuring games, crafts, baking, hands-on animal care, handling and feeding, service projects and more. There are three camp age ranges: Little Kids (ages 6 to 8), Big Kids (ages 9 to 12) and Teens (ages 13 to 15) Who: Ages 6 through 15 When: Camp weeks, dates and times TBA Cost: TBA

Pelham Parks & Recreation Pelham Veterans Memorial Park, 109 Veterans Memorial Parkway, Pelham, 635-2721, pelhamweb.com/recreation

What: The camp features activities like swimming, kayaking, beach play, volleyball, basketball, tetherball, relay games, wiffle ball, arts and crafts and more. Who: Ages 6 to 14 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m, dates offered July 6 through Aug. 13 Cost: $475 per child for six weeks (may be limited to Pelham residents only due to the pandemic; a decision on that limitation is pending)

Strawbery Banke Museum Camps 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth, 433-1100, strawberybanke.org

What: Campers will explore the 10-acre outdoor history museum and participate in activities led by professional crafters, archaeologists, character role-players, curators and historians. Who: Ages 6 to 17 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., offered various weeks from June 28 through Aug. 13 Cost: Ranges from $240 to $580, depending on the camp and the camper’s membership status

SummerQuest at World Academy 138 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, 888-1982, worldacademynh.com

What: Programs include arts and crafts, games, cooking activities and much more, all intended to encourage the child’s creativity and imagination. Who: Kindergarten through grade 8 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., dates offered June 14 through Aug. 20 Cost: Ranges from $310 to $340 per week

UNH Youth Programs and Camps University of New Hampshire, Thompson Hall, 105 Main St., Durham, 862-7227, unh.edu/youthprograms

What: More than 50 programs offered for academic enrichment, creative arts, athletics, STEM and traditional camp recreation. See website for a full list. Who: Boys and girls ages 5 and up When: Various dates/times from June through August Cost: Varies depending on the program

YMCA Allard Center of Goffstown Branch of The Granite YMCA, 116 Goffstown Back Road, Goffstown, 497-4663, graniteymca.org/daycamp

What: Camp Halfmoon (ages 6 to 10) and Camp Quartermoon (ages 4 and 5) feature activities like archery, swimming, creative arts, sports and more. Other programs include Discovery Camp (ages 6 to 11), Ultimate Sports (ages 6 to 11), and Mad Science (ages 8 to 11), plus camps in archery, swimming, cooking and more. Who: Ages 4 and up When: Sessions run Monday to Friday, offered various dates from June 21 through Aug. 27 Cost: Varies; call for details

YMCA Day Camp of Hooksett Hooksett Memorial School, 5 Memorial Drive, Hooksett,Branch of The Granite YMCA, 497-4663, graniteymca.org/camps

What: Campers participate in sports, archery, arts and crafts, nature, adventure and special themed days. Who: Ages 5 to 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 20 Cost: Varies; call for details

YMCA of Downtown Manchester Branch of The Granite YMCA, 30 Mechanic St., Manchester, 232-8632, graniteymca.org/camps

What: Kids at Camp Namoskeag (ages 6 to 14) will enjoy activities like swimming, field games, sports, arts and crafts and more. Each week has a different theme. Who: Ages 6 to 14 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Sept. 3 Cost: Varies; call for details

YMCA of Greater Nashua Nashua YMCA Branch, 24 Stadium Drive, Nashua, 882-2011; Merrimack YMCA Branch, 6 Henry Clay Drive, Merrimack, 881-7778; Camp Sargent, 141 Camp Sargent Road, Merrimack, 880-4845; nmymca.org

What: Camp Sargent is held on Lake Naticook and includes a traditional day camp and a variety of specialty camps, like Digging for Dinos (grades K through 2), Wild West Camp (grades K through 4), Harry Potter Camp (grades 3 through 6), Archery Camp (grades 5 through 9) and more. The Nashua Branch also has a Little Investigators Camp (ages 3 to 5). The Merrimack Branch day camps include a creative arts camp called Camp Create (grades 1 through 6), and specialty camps like Music Makers (grades 1 through 6), Dance Mania (grades 1 through 4), Skips and Scribbles (grades 1 and 2), and Creative Cooks (grades 1 through 6). Who: Ages 3 and up When: Most sessions run Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., or 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., various dates offered throughout the summer beginning the week of June 14 Cost: Camp Sargent is $210 per week for YMCA members and $275 per week for non-members. Specialty camps at the Merrimack branch are $235 per week for members and $300 per week for non-members. The Little Investigators Camp is $152 per week for members and $165 per week for non-members.

YMCA of Greater Londonderry Branch of The Granite YMCA, 206 Rockingham Road, Londonderry, 437-9622, graniteymca.org/camps

What: Camp Pa-Gon-Ki (pre-K to grade 7) is a traditional day camp featuring creative arts, fort-building, archery, swimming, sports, theater, nature and adventure. Camps for teens include a trip camp, where campers will travel to fun attractions around New England. Who: Ages 5 and up When: Sessions run Monday to Friday, dates offered June 21 through Aug. 27 Cost: Varies; call for details

YMCA of Strafford County Branch of The Granite YMCA, 35 Industrial Way, Rochester; Camp Coney Pine, 63 Lowell St., Rochester; 332-7334, graniteymca.org/camps

What: Camp Coney Pine (ages 5 to 12) includes archery, creative arts, dance, group games, a ropes course, swimming, sports, fort-building and more. A variety of specialty camps new to 2021 are also available, like Mad Science (ages 7 to 11), Ultimate Sports (ages 7 to 11), Raw Arts (ages 6 to 11) and High Adventure (ages 7 to 12) Who: Ages 5 and up When: Sessions run Monday to Friday, dates offered June 21 through Sept. 3 Cost: Varies; call for details

YMCA of the Seacoast Branch of The Granite YMCA, 550 Peverly Hill Road, Portsmouth, 431-2334, graniteymca.org/camps

What: Camp Gundalow (ages 5 to 13) features nature exploration, swimming, a ropes course, sports, creative arts, dancing, fort-building, team-building activities, archery and more. There is also a four-week Leader in Training program for teens, introducing them to becoming leaders through effective communication, team-building and behavior management techniques. Who: Ages 5 to 15 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, dates offered June 21 through Sept. 3 Cost: Varies; call for details

MUSIC

Bedford Youth Performing Company Music Camps 155 Route 101, Bedford, 472-3894, bypc.org/2021-music-summer

What: Virtual Rock Band Camps allow campers to jam, collaborate and perform with fellow musicians over Zoom. A Recording Camp is also offered for grades 7 and up. Who: Grades 4 through 12 When: Rock Band for grades 4 through 6 offered July 26 through Aug. 6, with sessions held Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rock Band for grades 7 through 12 runs July 12 through July 16, with sessions held Monday through Friday, 4 to 9 p.m. Recording Camp runs Monday, Aug. 16, through Friday, Aug. 20. Cost: $250

Manchester Community Music School 2291 Elm St., Manchester, 644-4548, mcmusicschool.org/summer-camp

What: Programs include musical exploration sessions for students in either grades 1 through 3 or grades 4 through 6. Campers spend the week trying out different types of musical instruments and participating in musical games and music-making activities Who: Grades 1 through 6 When: Sessions are available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon, dates offered Aug. 2 to Aug. 6 for grades 1 through 3 and Aug. 9 to Aug. 13 for grades 4 through 6. Cost: $200

Nashua Community Music School Nashua Millyard, 5 Pine St. Ext., Nashua, 881-7030, nashuacms.org/summercamps

What: Themes for ages 8 through 12 include Musical Olympics, Rise Up & Create, Ukulele Camp, and Broadway Week. Themes for ages 4 through 7 include Fairy Tale Musical Mash-up and Music Around the World. Who: Ages 4 through 12 When: Dates offered June 21 through July 16 for ages 8 through 12, and July 19 through July 30 for ages 4 through 7, sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cost: $175

Walden School Young Musicians Program Dublin School 18 Lehmann Way, Dublin, 415-648-4710, waldenschool.org/young-musicians-program

What: A residency camp where campers will receive daily instruction in a supportive community of peers and mentors to hone their musical and creative skills and improvise and compose original works. Who: Ages 9 through 18 When: June 29 through Aug. 4; three-week or five-week sessions are available Cost: Call for details

NATURE

Beaver Brook Nature Camps 117 Ridge Road, Hollis, 465-7787, beaverbrook.org/education/summer-camp

What: Campers will enjoy hikes and outdoor exploring, campfire cooking and nature-themed games and activities. Who: Ages 4 through 16 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday (no camp on Monday, July 5) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (9 a.m. to noon for ages 4 and 5), dates offered June 21 through Aug. 6 Cost: Ranges from $132 to $285, depending on the camp

Farm, Field and Forest Camp The Nature of Things, 10 Groton Road, Nashua, 881-4815, cultivatingwild.com

What: This program is designed for the camper who loves animals and the outdoors. Campers will participate in the daily routine of a real working farm, learning about sustainability, healthy food, gardening and composting, and humane treatment and care of barn animals such as goats, chickens, donkey and alpaca. Who: Ages 7 through 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, dates offered July 12 through Aug. 13 Cost: Ranges from $350 to $360 per week; extended care is also available.

New Hampshire Audubon Nature Day Camps McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord; Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn; 224-9909, nhaudubon.org/education/nature-day-camp

What: Programs include a half-day Wonders Camp (ages 4 and 5) and a Discovery Camp (ages 6 through 9), featuring hikes, crafts, storytelling, games and live animal presentations. Themes include Buzz and Flutter, Be a Scientist, Survival, Marvelous Mammals, Aquatic Adventures, Digging in the Dirt, and Creatures of the Night Who: Ages 4 through 9 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday (no camp on Monday, July 5) from 9 a.m. to noon for ages 4 and 5 and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for ages 6 through 9, dates offered June 21 through Aug. 13. Cost: TBA

Outdoor Discovery Summer Camp Amherst Parks & Recreation Department, 673-6248, amherstnh.myrec.com

What: A camp focused on exploring the great outdoors. Each week is themed; this year’s themes include Eco-Zone, Trash to Treasure, Minute to Win It, Olympics and Castaway Who: Grades 1 through 7 When: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 13 Cost: $215 per week for Amherst residents and $255 per week for non-residents. Extended before or after care is also available.

WildQuest Camp Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, 928 White Oaks Road, Laconia, 366-5695, prescottfarm.org/service/wildquest-day-camps/wildquest-summer-camp

What: Campers will participate in nature activities, animal and plant identification, arts and crafts, quests, games and hands-on learning. Themes include Survivor, Kids Can Cook, Nature Artists, Water Water Everywhere, Beyond the Myths, Mad Scientists, Creature Feature, A Little Bit of Everything and A Little Bit More Who: Ages 4 through 14 When: Sessions run Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 28 through Aug. 27 Cost: $235 per week

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Astronomy Camp Meeting House Montessori School28 Logging Hill Road, Bow, 227-9300, meetinghousemontessori.com

What: Through experiments, crafts and lessons, campers will learn about the solar system, the different phases of the moon, stars, constellations, comets, rockets, astronauts and more. Who: Ages 6 to 10 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. or 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., dates offered June 21 to Aug. 20 Cost: Call for details

Brainwave Summer Technology Camps The Nature of Things, 10 Groton Road, Nashua, 881-4815, tnotgroup.com/enrichment-center/summer.php

What: Themes include Lego Urban Planning and Minecraft Adventurecraft: Lost in the City. Who: Ages 6 through 8 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dates offered July 12 through July 23 Cost: $380

Camp Invention Locations in Amherst, Londonderry and Strafford, 800-968-4332, invent.org

What: Campers participate in a variety of hands-on STEM activities led by local educators. Who: Grades K through 6 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, times vary depending on location, dates offered June 21 through July 2 and Aug. 2 through Aug. 6. Cost: Ranges from $235 to $260, depending on the camp location

FIRST Lego Invention Challenge Camp SEE Science Center, 200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400, see-sciencecenter.org/camp-summer-science-first-lego-session-1

What: Campers use Lego Mindstorms robots in small teams to design, build and program autonomous robots. Who: Ages 9 to 14 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dates offered July 19 through July 23 and Aug. 2 through Aug. 6 Cost: $300

iSpy Camp SEE Science Center, 200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400,

What: Campers will learn about crime scene investigation and forensic science and espionage through hands-on activities. Who: Ages 8 through 13 When: Monday, July 26, through Friday, July 30, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Cost: $300

LEtGO Your Mind STEM Program Locations throughout New Hampshire, in Amherst, Bedford, Concord, Dover, Durham, Londonderry, Manchester, Nashua, New London, Pelham, Portsmouth, Salem and Windham, 731-8047, letgoyourmind.com/summer-2021-programs

What: Campers work in small groups on guided STEM-related building projects, including Lego building, as well as free-building time. Who: Ages 4 through 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (9 a.m. to noon for ages 4 and 5), dates offered June 21 through Aug. 20. Cost: Ranges from $185 to $355, depending on the camp

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center STEM Camp 2 Institute Drive, Concord, 271-7827, starhop.com/current-and-upcoming-programs

What: Themes include Coding, Programming and Robots; Blast Off; Junior Flyers on Earth and Beyond; Tech for Ecology; Wicked, Wild Weather; Discover the Dinosaurs; and Astronomy 101. Who: Ages 5 through 14, depending on the camp When: Sessions run Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or 2 p.m., depending on the camp, dates offered are June 21 through Aug. 6 Cost: Ranges from $185 to $345, depending on the camp

SEE Science CenterSummer Science Camp 200 Bedford St., Manchester, 669-0400, see-sciencecenter.org/see-camps-programs

What: Campers will explore science topics through hands-on activities. Themes include Electrifying Electricity, Chemical Concoctions, Exhibit Design Lab, and Reverse Engineering. Who: Ages 7 to 13 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dates offered July 12 to July 16 and Aug. 9 through Aug. 13 Cost: $300

Seacoast Science Center 570 Ocean Blvd., Rye, 436-8043, ext. 16, seacoastsciencecenter.org/programs/environmental-day-camps

What: In Treks 4 Tots (ages 4 and 5) and Seaside Safari (grades K through 5), campers will explore the different habitats in Odiorne Point State Park as well as the live animal exhibits and hands-on exhibits in the center to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Safari Stewards (grades 6 through 8) is a field trip program. Each session will have its own theme. A marine biology camp is also available for high school students. Who: Age 4 and up When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (half-day option available for Treks, from 9 a.m. to noon), dates offered June 21 through Aug. 27. 14 Cost: Ranges from $250 to $400, depending on the camp. Single day options also available for some camps.

Space and Astronomy Camp North End Montessori School698 Beech St., Manchester, 621-9011, northendmontessori.com

What: Campers will have the chance to explore the solar system, stars, asteroids, gravity, space travel and more. Sessions of two days, three days or five days per week are offered Who: Ages 3 to 10 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., dates offered June 21 to Aug. 27 Cost: Ranges from $85 to $240 per week, depending on the number of sessions

SPORTS

Caramba Skills Soccer Camp Locations in Concord, Nashua, Chichester and Gilmanton, 496-3579, soccerskillscamp.org

What: Soccer program specializes in skill development for goaltenders, defenders, midfielders and strikers. Players are divided by age for the first half of the day, then by ability level for the second half. A high school preseason camp is also offered. Who: Grades 1 through 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, times vary depending on the location (half-day option available), dates offered July 12 through Aug. 5 Cost: Starts at $125 per week (price increases after March 20)

Challenger Sports Soccer Camps Various NH locations, 401-864-8880, challengersports.com

What: Campers will develop core soccer skills and understanding of the game as well as sportsmanship and leadership skills. Who: All ages When: Sessions run Monday to Friday Cost: Varies, depending on the type of camp and the location

Health Club of Concord Camps10 Garvins Falls Road, Concord, 224-7787, healthclubofconcord.com

What: Programs include basketball, volleyball, tennis, swimming, field games, arts and crafts and group activities. Who: Ages 5 to 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., dates offered June 21 to Aug. 20 Cost: Call for details

NH Climbing & Fitness 10 Langdon Ave., Concord, 715-9171, nhclimbinggym.com/camp

What: Programs include Summer Indoor Camp (ages 6 to 12), in which campers can learn basic top-rope climbing, and NH Adventure Camp (ages 10 and up), in which campers take hiking-based field trips across the state. Who: Ages 6 and up When: Sessions for the Summer Indoor Camp are held Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered June 28 through Aug. 20. Sessions for NH Adventure Camp are held Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., dates offered June 28 through Aug. 20 (climbing gear is included). Cost: Summer Indoor Camp is $260 per week. NH Adventure Camp is $460 per week.

Foster’s Golf Camp Derryfield Park, 581 Bridge St., Manchester, 622-1553, fostersgolfcamp.com

What: Campers travel to different par-3 courses across New Hampshire and participate in practice clinics, chipping and putting contests, time on the driving range and at least nine holes of golf with instruction. Trophies and certificates are awarded at the end of the session. Drop-offs and pick-ups are at Derryfield Park. Golf camps take place at a variety of locations, depending on the day of the week. Who: Ages 7 to 16 of all experience levels When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 27 Cost: $295 per week

Granite State Lacrosse Camp Joppa Hill Fields, 176 Joppa Hill Road, Bedford; 867-9421, granitestatelacrosse.com

What: Boys of all abilities and positions will learn lacrosse skills and take part in full-field games to work on team concepts taught earlier in the day. Each camp also features a goalie school. Who: Boys ages 5 to 17 When: Three sessions run from Monday through Thursday, dates offered June 28 to July 1, July 12 to July 15 and July 26 to July 29 Cost: $195 per session

Junior Fitness Camp Executive Health and Sports Center, 1 Executive Way, Manchester, 624-9300, ext. 206, ehsc.com

What: Campers receive instruction in tennis, golf and basketball and will take classes in yoga, Zumba and healthy eating. They also participate in group exercise classes, arts and crafts, team games and outdoor pool. Who: Ages 5 through 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 13 Cost: Call for details

NH Tomahawks Girls Lacrosse Camp Back River Sports Complex, 15 Camp Allen Road, Bedford; Joppa Hill Fields, 176 Joppa Hill Road, Bedford; girls.nhtomahawks.com

What: Players will be divided by position, age and ability, and will focus on improving fundamental skills in lacrosse, including offensive moves, shooting, cutting, feeding and one-on-one defense. Goalies will have specific training and integrate in with the rest of the camp for game play. Who: Girls ages 5 to 17 When: Three weekly sessions run from 9 a.m. to noon this year, dates offered Monday, June 28, through Thursday, July 1; Monday, July 12, through Thursday, July 15; and Monday, July 26, through Thursday, July 29 Cost: $175 for each session

Nike Basketball Camps Locations in Derry, Hampton, Manchester and Nashua, 800-645-3226, ussportscamps.com/basketball/nike

What: Camp for basketball players who want to improve their skills. Includes lectures, team games and daily emphasis on fundamental development. Who: Co-ed ages 8 through 16 When: Most sessions run Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 6 (varies depending on the location) Cost: Ranges from $285 to $325, depending on the session and location

Pro Ambitions Hockey Day Camps Tri-Town Ice Arena, 311 W. River Road, Hooksett; Conway Arena, 5 Stadium Drive, Nashua; proambitions.com

What: At the Battle Camp, players learn skating skills and game theory elements while engaging in a situational battle. The Boston Bruins Camp features training in all aspects of ice hockey, plus daily appearances and autograph sessions with members of the Boston Bruins organization. A goaltending camp is also offered. Who: Ages 6 through 16 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. or 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., dates offered July 5 through July 23. See website for full schedule Cost: Generally ranges from $549 to $699, depending on the camp

THEATER

Bedford Youth Performing Co. 155 Route 101, Bedford, 472-3894, bypc.org/dance-musicaltheatre

What: Preschool camps are offered for ages 3 through 6 with themes including Kindermusik, At the Circus, In Motion, Outdoor Discovery, Super Heroes. Camps offered for ages 6 through 13 include a Moana Production, Taste of Broadway, Acro Circus, Finding Nemo Production and Musical Theatre Performer’s Tool Kit. Who: Ages 3 through 13. When: Preschool camps run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., dates offered June 14 through Aug. 6. Other camps run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 or 4 p.m., dates offered June 21 through Aug. 20. Cost: $250 for preschool camps, $295 for all other camps

The Derryfield School Repertory Theatre Camp 2108 River Road, Manchester, 641-9426, derryfield.org/summer/theatre-camp

What: Campers will practice acting, singing, dance, script writing and improvisation techniques and participate in performance opportunities. Who: Grades 3 through 12 When: Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dates offered July 5 through July 30 Cost: $575

The Majestic Theatre 880 Page St., Manchester, 669-7469, majestictheatre.net

What: Campers will learn the basics of music, theater and dance. Themes include Time Machine: Around the World and Beyond; It’s a Jungle; Peter Pan: A Musical Adventure; and Bots: A New Children’s Musical. Who: Ages 5 through 14, depending on the camp When: Days and times vary, depending on the camp, dates offered July 5 through Aug. 7 Cost: Ranges from $160 to $325, depending on the camp

Merrimack Summer Stage Wasserman Park Theater, 116 Naticook Road, Merrimack, hosted by Merrimack Parks & Recreation, 882-1046, merrimackparksandrec.org/merrimack-summer-stage What: Campers will learn about scene acting, vocal work, dance and creative movement, theater games and improvisation and work together to produce and perform Disney’s Aladdin Jr. Who: Ages 8 through 14 When: Monday, July 12, through Friday, July 16, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $200 for Merrimack residents and $210 for non-residents. Sibling discounts are also available.

Triple Threat Theater Camp Londonderry Dance Academy, 21 Buttrick Road, Londonderry, 432-0032, triplethreattheatercamp.com

What: Camps focus on the core aspects of theater, including acting, dancing and voice. Led by experienced theater educators, directors and choreographers, campers will participate in workshops and rehearsals to prepare for a public performance at the end of the session. Who: Ages 5 1/2 to 17 When: Three-week program for ages 7 through 17 runs July 12 through July 30, 8:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. A Junior Program for ages 5 1/2 through 9 is offered Monday, July 12, through Friday, July 16, 8:45 a.m. to noon Cost: $175 for Junior Program, $825 for three-week program.

Details to come

The following camps have confirmed that they will be hosting a camp but the details have yet to be announced. Call or visit their websites for up-to-date information.

• Barbara C. Harris Episcopal Camp (108 Wally Stone Lane, Greenfield, 547-3400, bchcenter.org/camp) General interest camp. Details TBA on its website by March 31.

• Boys & Girls Club of Greater Nashua (1 Positive Place, Nashua; Camp Doucet, Ridge Road, Nashua; 883-1074, bgcn.com) General interest camp. Details TBA.

• Concord Community Music School (23 Wall St., Concord, 228-1196, ccmusicschool.org) Music camp. Details TBA.

• Nashua Parks and Recreation (589-3370, nashua.recdesk.com/community/home) General interest camp. Details TBA on its website this month.

• Peacock Players Theatre Camp (Nashua, 886-7000, peacockplayers.org) Theater camp. Details TBA.

• Project SMART (University of New Hampshire, 46 College Road, Durham, 862-3205, smart.unh.edu) Academic enrichment camp with a focus on math and science. Details TBA.

Featured photo: Camp Lovewell. Courtesy photo.