Art courtesy of Melissa Nucera.

Spring has finally begun, which means it’s time for Carl’s annual Once Upon a Time reading event! The challenge runs from March 21 to June 21, and the basic goal is simple: read books that fit within the genres of fantasy, fairy tales, mythology, and/or folklore. You can also read short stories, watch movies and TV shows, and play video games that explore these genres. The challenge has several levels, so it’s easy to participate whether you’re planning to read 20 fantasy novels or just one. I’m hoping to read several books this spring that will qualify, but I’m only going to sign up for “The Journey,” which asks me to read at least one book. Some possibilities include: The Raven King by Maggie Stiefvater, The Storyteller and Her Sisters by Cheryl Mahoney, and Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson. As a bonus, I may also watch the 1999 version of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in June, since it’s been a long time since I’ve seen it. If this challenge sounds exciting to you, be sure to sign up here! And if you’re already planning to participate, what will you be reading?