Muse Squad Welcomes Newest Instructor
Muse Squad is very excited to announce that our upcoming Melting Stars creative writing course, to take place in New Milford beginning in late March, will be co-instructed by New Milford local Kay Mickelson. Ms. Mickelson is both a Girl Scout troop leader and an educator at Pratt Nature Center, and we cannot wait to bring her on board and have her join our team of talented and enthusiastic instructors.
About Muse Squad
Muse Squad, a creative writing program founded by Brittney Richardson in 2022, is dedicated to fostering the growth of young writers. The program provides a nurturing environment where students can explore their creativity, develop their writing skills, and build confidence in their abilities. Through group discussions, writing exercises, and constructive feedback, Muse Squad equips students with the tools they need to become competent, self-assured writers. Committed to meaningful literary exploration, Muse Squad allows young writers to engage with classic literature while developing their unique voices.
The Princess and the Goblin
This spring, Muse Squad’s New Milford chapter will present Melting Stars, a creative writing class inspired by George MacDonald’s beloved 1872 fantasy novel The Princess and the Goblin. First serialized in Good Words for the Young beginning in November 1870, the novel remains one of the most celebrated Victorian fairy tales. The Princess and the Goblin follows the adventures of Princess Irene and Curdie, a courageous miner’s son, as they navigate a world of mystery and magic. With goblins lurking beneath the mountain, Irene and Curdie must rely on courage, wisdom, and trust to uncover hidden dangers and protect the kingdom. The novel is known for its enchanting storytelling, themes of faith and perseverance, and its profound influence on the fantasy genre.
About George MacDonald
George MacDonald (1824–1905) is widely regarded as a pioneering figure in modern fantasy literature. A poet, novelist, and Christian minister, MacDonald was instrumental in shaping the world of children’s fiction. His imaginative storytelling and rich allegories influenced literary giants such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. With works like The Princess and the Goblin and Phantastes, MacDonald introduced readers to a world where fantasy and morality intertwine, leaving a lasting mark on literature and inspiring generations of writers.
The John Pettibone Community Center, located in New Milford, Connecticut, is a multi-purpose facility housed in the former John Pettibone Elementary School, closed in 2015 due to declining enrollment. It was converted into a community center in 2017, and the 75,000-square-foot building serves as a hub for various town departments, including the Youth Agency and Parks and Recreation, as well as the nonprofit food pantry Camella’s Cupboard.
Key Details:
New Milford Chapter
Location: John Pettibone Community Center
2 Pickett District Road
New Milford, CT 06776
Spring 2025
🌼 Course: Melting Stars (Ages 8 - 12) 🌼
Thursdays, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
March 20 - May 29
🌼 Course: Melting Stars (Ages 13+) 🌼
Mondays, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
March 24 - June 9
Contact Information:
For more information on the class and how to enroll, visit MuseSquad.org. For questions or additional inquiries, please email info@musesquad.org.
*All information and research was sourced from The Princess and the Goblin and George