1 . With 60 miles of canals and nearly 7,000 buildings dating from the 18th century or earlier, Amsterdam is one of Europe’s best preserved cities. Here are some of our favorites.
The Concertgebouw
A free classical concert in one of the world’s greatest concert halls? Sounds too good to be true, but every Wednesday at lunchtime that’s exactly what’s on offer at the Concertgebouw. The latest series just started up again this month and will run through June. You can pick up a free ticket (one per person) on the day of the show starting at 11:30 a.m.; the concert takes place from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Rijksmuseum Gardens
Take a walk in the beautiful formal gardens of the Rijksmuseum, which are dotted with fascinating artworks. There’s a life-size chessboard, a fountain by contemporary Danish artist Jeppe Hein, and post-war climbing frames by architect Aldo van Eyck. The gardens also host sculpture exhibitions — currently there are 21 sculptures on show by the Spanish artist Joan Miró until October 11.
The Muziektheater
This important opera, dance and music venue has free weekly lunchtime concerts by top performers on Tuesdays from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the entrance hall, from September to May. Once or twice a month, the concert is followed by a free tour of the theatre — check the website for details.
Central Library
At the Netherlands’ biggest library, the Centrale Bibliotheek, you can read the international papers for free, and while Wi-Fi isn’t completely free, you can purchase 30 minutes for little more than a dollar by using one of the ticket machines. Upstairs on the 7th floor there is a café with a balcony that boasts wonderful city views.
1. Which one would you prefer if you have a taste for artworks?| A．The Concertgebouw. | B．The Muziektheater. |
| C．Rijksmuseum Gardens. | D．Central Library. |
| A．Enjoy classical music at Concertgebouw. |
| B．Attend the free weekly lunchtime concert. |
| C．Visit sculpture exhibitions of Joan Miró. |
| D．Take a walk in the Rijksmuseum Gardens. |
| A．Wi-Fi in it is free to use. |
| B．You can get a fantastic view of the city. |
| C．It is the biggest library in the world. |
| D．Newspapers at home and abroad are free to read. |
2 . Win an Interview with NYT Bestselling Author J. Elle
In addition to your private online Zoom interview, you will also win a print copy of her book, Wings of Ebony, a PDF copy of the book, and the chance to have your interview published in Teen Ink.
How to Enter:
1. Follow Teen Ink on Instagram(teen. ink)
2. Comment two of your potential questions for J. Elle on our contest post, or email them to contests@teenink.com
3. We will be choosing the winner based on these questions so do your best!
About the Book:
Wings of Ebony is part of YA fantasy books about a black teen goddess named Rue who must rise up against racist gods, who poisoned her block with drugs, violence, and crime. It extends a unique perspective on racism, privilege, cultural appropriation, and community.
About J. Elle:
J. Elle is a former teacher to inner-city students, and the founder of "Your Story is Your Power," a creative writing workshop that empowers teen voices. From growing up poor to being a first-generation college student, Elle's perseverance and passion for empowering others dates back to her first career in education, teaching tweens and teens from traditionally underserved areas to fight for their dreams. She drew inspiration for the novel from her own experience growing up poor, which is clearly reflected in her book.
1. What will the winner get?| A．A face-to-face interview with Elle. |
| B．A book with J. Elle's signature. |
| C．A PDF copy of Wings of Ebony. |
| D．A published copy of Teen Ink. |
| A．entries. | B．comments. | C．emails. | D．questions. |
| A．Her love for teaching. |
| B．Her experience in poverty. |
| C．Her dream of writing. |
| D．Her education in college. |
