There’s plenty to like about November at the Gardens. For one thing, admission is free this time of year, right up until mid-April. The gardens, which are still in harvest mode, also have “beautiful bones” of stones, stems and structures that really appear at their best now that many of the trees have lost their leaves. The extensive paths and trails, including a mile along the sparkling waterfront, offer a perfect spot for an autumn ramble. The following programs and events are coming up in the next couple of weeks.

November 10, 17, 24: Free Storytimes

Every Monday at 10 a.m., kids find a place on the colorful quilt that volunteer Pat Jeremiah spreads out on the floor and hear stories and enjoy conversation with CMBG’s own “Miss Rumphius.” She conjures up other fun-filled activities for young visitors, too. These free Storytimes are in the Bosarge Family Education Center throughout the winter.

November 17: Dinner by Solo Bistro Chef

Chef Ray Franklyn of Bath’s popular, award-winning Solo Bistro will prepare the Kitchen Garden Series Dinner at the Gardens on Sunday, Nov. 17. A resident of greater Portland for more than a decade, Franklyn was originally a son of Portland Parish, Jamaica. He grew up working in his mother’s restaurant in Jamaica before getting his formal culinary training and was recruited to open a large restaurant in southern Maine.

Most recently, before coming to Solo Bistro in the spring of 2012, he was sous chef at Walter’s in Portland. His enthusiasm for great food and his general joie de vivre mesh with Solo Bistro’s philosophy of uncompromising quality and an informal atmosphere.

Prices for the special dinner Franklyn will prepare at the Gardens are $75 for members and $90 for nonmembers and include wine, tax, and gratuities. The meal begins at 6 p.m. For reservations, which are required; call 207-633-4333, ext. 101.

 November 19: Fireside Book Club

The book to read for the very first meeting of the Fireside Book Club at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 19, is Brother Gardeners, a fascinating true story told by Andrea Wulf. This and the other three highly regarded selections for subsequent months’ meetings will appeal to anyone interested in reading about nature and gardening and discussing what they’ve read while enjoying tea and treats in good company by the Visitor Center fireplace.

The price to join the Fireside Book Club and participate in all four sessions is $10 for members and $12 for nonmembers. Boothbay Region Land Trust and local garden club members may register at the member fee. Preregistration is required, and participants are asked to read the book to be discussed before each meeting. To learn about all four books and to register, visit www.mainegardens.org, or call 207-633-4333, ext. 101.