North Shore Poets’ Forum members gathered at the Beverly Public Library on March 16, an almost-spring day, for our first meeting since last year. Susan Hathaway presented information about self-publishing her lovely children’s book, “Who will Speak for the River,” focused on the Ipswich River.

The Ipswich River has been recognized as the eighth most endangered river in the US, serving as the water supply for 14 North Shore communities and as a very popular recreation area for canoeing, fishing, picnicking, hiking. Susan is a member of the Middleton Stream Team and knows the issues — too little water for too many people to rely on for day-to-day living. She hoped to garner more attention to the need for conservation with the book and to inspire children to cherish and care about this precious resource.

Actually, she has two version of the same book, one in English and Spanish, the other in English and Vietnamese. She found a high schooler, Molly, and a seventh grader, Jack, to draw colorful and graceful pictures that capture the beauty of the river and environs.

Susan is now learning how to market the book. As a first step, you are invited to email her at schmwl02@yahoo.com. Put your interest in the subject line. Cost is $13.95 plus shipping. Profits will go toward conservation of the river.

After much discussion, we then read our poems for gentle critique. Our next meeting is Saturday, April 20, 10:30 to 12:30, in the Will Barnet Gallery of the Beverly Public Library. Sandy Hokanson will give a presentation, topic to be determined.