Latest Events in South Hadley(December Updated)

An electric debut novel about the daughter of Afghan refugees and her year of self-discovery—“a stunning coming-of-age story” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) and a portrait of the artist as a young woman set in a Berlin that can’t escape its history A girl can get in almost anywhere, even if she can’t get out. “A no-bullsh*t, must-read debut.”—Kaveh Akbar “Kaleidoscopic, full of style and soul.”—Raven Leilani “I loved this book.”—Leslie Jamison In Berlin’s artistic underground, where techno and drugs fill warehouses still pockmarked from the wars of the twentieth century, nineteen-year-old Nila at last finds her tribe. Born in Germany to Afghan parents, raised in public housing graffitied with swastikas, drawn to philosophy, photography, and sex, Nila has spent her adolescence disappointing her family while searching for her voice as a young woman and artist. Then in the haze of Berlin’s legendary nightlife, Nila meets Marlowe, an American writer whose fading literary celebrity opens her eyes to a life of personal and artistic freedom. But as Nila finds herself pulled further into Marlowe’s controlling orbit, ugly, barely submerged racial tensions begin to roil Germany—and Nila’s family and community. After a year of running from her future, Nila stops to ask herself the most important question: Who does she want to be? A story of love and family, raves and Kafka, staying up all night and surviving the mistakes of youth, Good Girl is the virtuosic debut novel by a celebrated young poet and, now, a major new voice in fiction. About the AuthorAria Aber was born and raised in Germany and now lives in the United States. Her debut poetry collection, Hard Damage, won the Prairie Schooner Book Prize and the Whiting Award. She is a former Wallace Stegner Fellow at Stanford and graduate student at USC, and her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, New Republic, The Yale Review, Granta, and elsewhere. Raised speaking Farsi and German, she writes in her third language, English. She recently joined the faculty of the University of Vermont as an assistant professor of Creative Writing and divides her time between Vermont and Brooklyn. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

About the BookAnthony Horowitz selects and introduces the best mystery stories from the past year, under the auspices of the world’s oldest mystery fiction specialty bookshop. From a pool of over 3,000 considered stories published last year—anything that touched on crime, mystery, and suspense, from venues as disparate as The Strand Magazine, Dark Yonder, Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine, The Bellevue Literary Review, and more—these are the very best, selected by series editor Otto Penzler and guest editor Anthony Horowitz. The tales included cover a range of styles, highlighting the diversity of subjects and forms comprising the genre we call mystery fiction. Featuring a mixture of household names, masters of the short form, and newcomers to the field, the collection offers a variety that promises something for every reader. And it’s all capped off by a vintage story from the first half of the previous century, sourced directly from the rare book room at the Mysterious Bookshop, the oldest mystery fiction specialty store in the world. About Dan PopeDan Pope is a 2002 graduate of the Iowa Writers Workshop. He has published two novels, IN THE CHERRY TREE (Picador, 2003) and HOUSEBREAKING (Simon & Schuster, 2015). His short stories have appeared in numerous print journals, including The Gettysburg Review, McSweeneys, Iowa Review, The Bellevue Review, The Bennington Review, Shenandoah, Harvard Review, Witness, Post Road, Crazyhorse, The Greensboro Review, as well as many anthologies, including Best New American Voices 2007 (Harcourt) and the Pushcart Prize Anthology (2020), the Best Mystery Stories of the Year 2024. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

About the BookBuddhist teachings and heart-centered practices from the “feminine paradigm” to embrace receptivity and bring more balance to your life, relationships, and the world. With deeply thoughtful, lyrical prose, this book invites readers to engage with the world from a unique perspective that encourages feeling, intuitive understanding, embodiment, interdependence, and sacredness. Weaving together classical Theravada Buddhist teachings and mindfulness practices, the book teaches us when and how to channel our receptive and active orientations—sometimes called the feminine and masculine paradigms—to feel more at home in ourselves and the world and drop more deeply into the Buddhist teachings on suffering and happiness. Rebecca Bradshaw, a respected Buddhist teacher in the Insight Meditation community, offers teachings that are simple yet require us to explore aspects of ourselves that go against much of our social conditioning that values goal-oriented busyness, productivity, independence, outgoing energy, and other “active” qualities. When overemphasized, this orientation can cause destructive emotions and behaviors, but we can counter them by embracing more receptive qualities. The receptive or feminine paradigm takes us deeper into the heart of the classical Buddhist teachings, leading to openness and freedom of the heart-mind. Bradshaw illustrates her own resistance to letting go of her strong active orientation with relatable stories, like her efforts to be a perfect meditator. Drawing on our connectedness to nature, she offers guidance for grounded practices, including: useless gazing,getting lost,sense-based reality,practicing in the wildness,accepting uncertainty, and more.These Buddhist teachings are as comforting as they are thought-provoking. Bradshaw’s debut book helps us let go and nurture our ability to receive, listen, embrace vulnerability, and just be. Through this process, we heal the imbalances within ourselves and in our relationships to all beings and the natural world. About the AuthorREBECCA BRADSHAW is Guiding Teacher Emeritus of the Insight Meditation Society and the Insight Meditation Community of Western Massachusetts. She has been practicing Vipassana meditation since 1983 and teaching since 1993. Bradshaw has a master’s degree in counseling psychology and has worked as a mental health counselor. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

About the BookIn the vein of Never Let Me Go and Killers of the Flower Moon, one of America’s greatest storytellers sheds light on an American tragedy: the Wounded Knee Massacre, and the ‘cultural genocide’ experienced by the Native American children at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School . . . In September of 1890, the academic year begins at the Carlisle School, a military-style boarding school for Indians in Pennsylvania, founded and run by Captain Richard Henry Pratt. Pratt considers himself a champion of Native Americans. His motto, “To save the man, we must kill the Indian,” is severely enforced in both classroom and dormitory: Speak only English, forget your own language and customs, learn to be white. As the young students navigate surviving the school, they begin to hear rumors of a “ghost dance” amongst the tribes of the west—a ceremonial dance aimed at restoring the Native People to power, and running the invaders off their land. As the hope and promise of the ghost dance sweeps across the Great Plains, cynical newspapers seize upon the story to whip up panic among local whites. The US government responds by deploying troops onto lands that had been granted to the Indians. It is an act that seems certain to end in slaughter. As news of these developments reaches Carlisle, each student, no matter what their tribe, must make a choice: to follow the white man’s path, or be true to their own way of life . . . About the AuthorJohn Sayles is an American independent film director, screenwriter, actor, and novelist. He has twice been nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, for Passion Fish (1992) and Lone Star (1996). He has written eight novels, the most recent being Yellow Earth (2020) and JAMIE MACGILLIVRAY: The Renegade’s Journey (2023), which was a New York Times Book Review Editor's Choice. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

Join us on Thursday, February 13 at 7 PM as Rebecca Brenner Graham presents her new book, Dear Miss Perkins: A Story of Frances Perkins's Efforts to Aid Refugees from Nazi Germany. About the BookThis outstanding, inspiring new narrative of the first woman to serve in a president’s cabinet reveals the full, never-before-told story of her role in saving Jewish refugees during the Nazi regime. She was the first woman to serve in a presidential cabinet, the longest-serving Labor Secretary, and an architect of the New Deal. Yet beyond these celebrated accomplishments there is another dimension to Frances Perkins’s story. Without fanfare, and despite powerful opposition, Perkins helped save the lives of countless Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi Germany. “Immigration problems usually have to be decided in a few days. They involve human lives. There can be no delaying,” Perkins wrote in her memoir, The Roosevelt I Knew. In March 1933, at the height of the Great Depression, Perkins was appointed Secretary of Labor by FDR. As Hitler rose to power, thousands of German-Jewish refugees and their loved ones reached out to the INS—then part of the Department of Labor—applying for immigration to the United States, writing letters that began “Dear Miss Perkins . . .” Perkins’s early experiences working in Chicago’s famed Hull House and as a firsthand witness to the horrific Triangle Shirtwaist fire shaped her determination to advocate for immigrants and refugees. As Secretary of Labor, she wrestled widespread antisemitism and isolationism, finding creative ways to work around quotas and restrictive immigration laws. Diligent, resilient, empathetic, yet steadfast, she persisted on behalf of the desperate when others refused to act. Based on extensive research, including thousands of letters housed in the National Archives, Dear Miss Perkins adds new dimension to an already extraordinary life story, revealing at last how one woman tried to steer the nation to a better, more righteous course. About the AuthorRebecca Brenner Graham is author of Dear Miss Perkins: A Story of Frances Perkins's Efforts to Aid Refugees from Nazi Germany, published by Kensington in 2025. The project began as her senior honors thesis at Mount Holyoke College in 2015. Rebecca has a PhD in history from American University. She is a postdoctoral research associate at Brown University. In 2023, she was awarded a Cokie Roberts Fellowship from the National Archives Foundation and a Rubenstein Center Research Fellowship from the White House Historical Association. Her writing has been published in the Washington Post, Time, Slate, the Los Angeles Review of Books, and elsewhere. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

About the BookHeir to a fortune, Marguerite is destined for a life of prosperity and gentility. Then she is orphaned, and her guardian—an enigmatic and volatile man—spends her inheritance and insists she accompany him on an expedition to New France. Isolated and afraid, Marguerite befriends her guardian’s servant and the two develop an intense attraction. But when their relationship is discovered, they are brutally punished and abandoned on a small island with no hope for rescue. Once a child of privilege who dressed in gowns and laced pearls in her hair, Marguerite finds herself at the mercy of nature. As the weather turns, blanketing the island in ice, she discovers a faith she’d never before needed. Inspired by the real life of a sixteenth-century heroine, Isola is the timeless story of a woman fighting for survival. About the AuthorAllegra Goodman is the author of six novels, including the national bestseller Sam, which was a Read with Jenna selection; two short story collections; and a novel for young readers. Her fiction has appeared in The New Yorker and elsewhere, and has been anthologized in The O. Henry Awards and Best American Short Stories. She lives with her family in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

About the BookFrom the author of Ms. Demeanor—one of the most beloved comedic writers of our time—comes a charming, laugh-out-loud tale of love and criminality, a pitch-perfect romantic comedy. “Over the course of more than thirty years and at least fifteen books, Elinor Lipman has been creating a singularly delightful and instantly recognizable literary universe. Lipmanland is a world adjacent to our own except the people there are more charming, the conversations are wittier, and love always prevails. Every Tom, Dick & Harry, weaves together estate sales, good and bad cops, and--get this—smalltown houses of ill-repute with effortless glee. Add sparkling dialogue, an improbably hilarious funeral, and one of the author’s most endearing love stories and you have the Lipman Literary Landscape at its irresistible best. When events are too much to handle in the real world, there are few better breaks than entering this one. Passport optional.”—Stephen McCauley Taking over her parents’ estate-sale business is not the life’s work that Emma Lewis bargained for. Yes, she grew up helping them empty people’s nests, but nothing prepared her for her biggest and stickiest “get”--the grand, beautiful house of ill repute masquerading as a decidedly beddable B and B. Should Emma turn down potential clients in need of decluttering just because they are shady, escort-y, and proud of it? No. A girl must make a living. Around some hairpin turns Lipman ingeniously reveals a straight shot to happiness. About the AuthorElinor Lipman is the award-winning author of sixteen books of fiction and nonfiction, including The Inn at Lake Devine, Isabel’s Bed, I Can’t Complain: (All Too) Personal Essays, On Turpentine Lane, Rachel to the Rescue, and Ms. Demeanor, a finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor. Her first novel, Then She Found Me, was adapted into a film directed by and starring Helen Hunt, with Bette Midler, Colin Firth, and Matthew Broderick. Lipman was the 2011–12 Elizabeth Drew Professor of Creative Writing at Smith College and divides her time between Manhattan and the Hudson Valley. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

Join James Jennings in person on Thursday, November 16, at 7 PM at Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley, MA, as he presents his debut novel, Wings of Red. This event is part of the Debut Author Club's December selection. Wings of Red is an inventive and stylish work of autofiction written by James Jennings, a Black educator. The novel offers a clear-eyed and funny exploration of the absurdity of the New York City educational system through the eyes of June Papers, a twenty-eight-year-old MFA grad and substitute teacher who is also homeless. As June navigates the challenges of his personal and professional life, readers are taken on a journey that combines vulnerability and intimacy. Wings of Red delves into the reality of a Black educator's world, highlighting the struggles and aspirations of its characters who strive to achieve their dreams amidst the financial and professional uncertainties they face. This inspiring and poetic tour de force serves as an ode to New York City and showcases the author's authentic and lived perspective. James W. Jennings, an artist and educator, brings his unique background and insights to this compelling narrative. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this thought-provoking and beautifully written novel firsthand. Admission is free.

Join Gabriel Bump in Person on Wednesday, November 29 at 7 PM as he presents his new novel, The New Naturals. This exclusive event will take place at the Odyssey Bookshop located at 9 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075. The New Naturals is the December selection of the Odyssey First Editions Club, making it a highly anticipated literary event. In this thought-provoking novel, Bump explores the concept of founding an underground utopia and the interconnected stories of those drawn to it. Rio, a young Black woman, seeks solace after the loss of her newborn child and envisions a society built on love, acceptance, and equality. Alongside her husband, they embark on the construction of this utopia, which begins to attract individuals from different walks of life - from unhoused men to disillusioned journalists. However, as the group yearns for purpose and refuge, the question arises: can this new society truly succeed? The New Naturals showcases Bump's exceptional storytelling talent and offers a fresh and perceptive perspective on life in the 21st century. Comparable to acclaimed works such as Paul Beatty's The Sellout and Jennifer Egan's The Candy House, this novel will captivate readers with its astute observations and exploration of human connection. Bump, an award-winning author of Everywhere You Don't Belong, hails from South Shore, Chicago, and holds an MFA in fiction from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Don't miss the opportunity to meet Gabriel Bump in person at this remarkable event. Admission is free, and it promises to be an evening filled with literary insights and engaging discussions. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 29, and join us at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley, MA for this memorable occasion.

Join us on Thursday, January 11 at 7 PM as esteemed local author Fred Sokol presents his latest masterpiece, Harry. This captivating novel takes readers on a journey through the vibrant streets of New York City's Lower East Side in the summer of 1970. Harry, a young and passionate individual, finds himself immersed in the world of music and love as he navigates his way through life. Guided by the enigmatic Edison and fueled by his deep connection with Carolyn, Harry's story unfolds with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. As the years pass, Harry and Carolyn's path leads them to the enchanting landscapes of Moab, Utah. The breathtaking rock formations and stunning scenery leave an indelible mark on their souls. However, as they grow older, Harry begins to experience troubling memory issues. Determined not to succumb to despair, he embarks on a heartfelt quest to reconnect with his past, seeking solace in the company of old friends and loved ones. Fred Sokol, renowned director, author, and theater critic, brings his wealth of knowledge and passion for storytelling to every page of Harry. With a rich background in theater, film, and literature, Sokol's expertise shines through in this beautifully crafted novel. Don't miss the opportunity to meet him in person and delve into the world of Harry. Don't miss Fred Sokol in Person at Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley on January 11, 2024. Admission is free, so mark your calendars for this unforgettable literary event.

Join Kaveh Akbar in South Hadley on Wednesday, January 24 at 1 PM as he presents his new novel, Martyr! This special event will take place at the Odyssey Bookshop located at 9 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075. Martyr! is an electrifying and funny novel that follows the journey of Cyrus Shams, a newly sober and orphaned son of Iranian immigrants. Guided by the voices of artists, poets, and kings, Cyrus embarks on a remarkable search for a family secret that leads him to a terminally ill painter living out her final days in the Brooklyn Museum. With its unique blend of humor and originality, Martyr! introduces Kaveh Akbar as an essential new voice in contemporary fiction. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most celebrated writers of our time. This event is free and open to the public. Be sure to mark your calendars for this special occasion.

Join Ani Gjika in person on Tuesday, January 30 at 7 PM at Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley, MA, as she presents her captivating memoir, An Unruled Body. This remarkable debut memoir explores the immigrant experience through the lens of a woman's personal journey, as she navigates the challenges of language, identity, and desire. Born in Albania and raised during the turbulent aftermath of Communism, Gjika shares her story of self-discovery and freedom across four countries. She candidly reveals the struggles and triumphs of finding her voice and embracing her own terms of expression. Ani Gjika, an award-winning poet and literary translator, has written eight books and chapbooks of poetry. She is a distinguished graduate of Boston University and currently teaches social studies and literature at Framingham High School. Joining Gjika in conversation is Yasmine Ameli, a talented Iranian American writer and teacher. Don't miss this opportunity to hear Ani Gjika speak about her powerful memoir and the experiences that shaped her. Admission is free for this event. Mark your calendar for January 30 and make your way to Odyssey Bookshop for an evening of insight and inspiration.

Join author Jon Clinch at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley on Wednesday, January 31 at 7 PM as he discusses his new novel, "The General and Julia." In this captivating work of superb historical fiction, Ulysses S. Grant, the iconic figure of American history, reflects on the pivotal moments of his life. Despite his battle with cancer, Grant is determined to complete his memoirs before his passing, providing financial security for his family and seeking redemption. Through the pages of his memoirs, Grant takes us on a journey through time, recounting his role as the Union's savior, the president who fought for civil rights, and a devoted husband and father. From blood-stained battlefields to the bustling streets of Gilded Age New York, this gorgeously rendered novel delves into Grant's changing views on race and Reconstruction. Written by acclaimed historical fiction master Jon Clinch, this evocative novel breathes fresh life into the enigmatic figure of Ulysses S. Grant. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from the author himself at this free event. Mark your calendars for January 31, 2024, and head to Odyssey Bookshop at 9 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075.

Join GennaRose Nethercott in person at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley on Thursday, February 8 at 7 PM for an enlightening discussion about her new collection, Fifty Beasts to Break Your Heart. This captivating book delves into the depths of human longing, exploring the darkness within us all. Nethercott presents a series of surreal and beautifully written stories that examine the complexities of love, fear, and the monstrous nature that resides within us. From two teenage girls uncovering the secrets of a mysterious roadside attraction, to a woman undergoing a chilling transformation to fit the desires of her artist boyfriend, these tales will challenge your perception of what it means to be a beast. Nethercott's work has garnered critical acclaim, with her book-length poem, The Lumberjack's Dove, winning the prestigious National Poetry Series. Don't miss the opportunity to experience her unique storytelling firsthand. This event is free of charge, so mark your calendars for February 8th and join us at the Odyssey Bookshop for an unforgettable evening with GennaRose Nethercott.

Join Stephen McCauley in Person on Wednesday, February 21 at 7 PM at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley, MA as he discusses his latest novel, You Only Call When You're In Trouble. Accompanied by Heather Abel, McCauley will delve into the thought-provoking question of whether it is ever acceptable to prioritize one's own needs over caring for others. The story revolves around Tom, an architect specializing in tiny houses, who is finally ready to prioritize himself after a lifetime of tending to his sister and niece. However, just as he sets this resolution, he receives a phone call that turns his world upside down. Cecily, Tom's beloved niece, is caught up in a Title IX investigation that could jeopardize her career and relationship, while Tom's sister wants him to reveal the true identity of Cecily's father. Unable to resist their pleas, Tom embarks on a life-altering journey that will challenge the bonds of family and illuminate the complexities of familial relationships. With his signature blend of warmth, humor, and emotional depth, McCauley paints a vivid portrait of relatable characters that will touch readers' hearts. Don't miss this extraordinary event featuring an author known for creating compelling narratives that leave a lasting impact. Admission is free.

Join award-winning translator Jennifer Croft on Thursday, March 7 at 7 PM for an unforgettable evening at the Odyssey Bookshop. Jennifer will be presenting her highly acclaimed novel, The Extinction of Irena Rey. This thought-provoking and beguiling story revolves around eight translators who find themselves in a primeval Polish forest, working on the translation of Irena Rey's magnum opus, Gray Eminence. However, their task takes an unexpected turn when Irena mysteriously disappears. As the translators delve deeper into the forest and Irena's enigmatic belongings, they uncover secrets that will test their devotion and unravel the fate of their beloved author. Jennifer Croft, the author of this captivating debut novel, has garnered numerous accolades for her literary accomplishments, including the prestigious International Booker Prize for her translation of Olga Tokarczuk's Flights. Her expertise and talent shine through in The Extinction of Irena Rey, offering readers a thrilling exploration of art, celebrity, and the power of language. This exclusive event is a rare opportunity for book enthusiasts to engage with Jennifer Croft and gain insights into her creative process. Don't miss out on this unputdownable adventure in South Hadley, Massachusetts. Admission is free, so mark your calendars for an evening of literary discovery.

Don't miss the chance to attend the highly anticipated event, Jennifer Croft in Conversation with Ilan Stavans in Person, taking place on Thursday, March 7 at 7 PM. This event will be held at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley, Massachusetts. The award-winning translator, Jennifer Croft, will be presenting her captivating novel, The Extinction of Irena Rey. She will engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Ilan Stavans, a renowned professor of Humanities at Amherst College. In this mesmerizing novel, Croft delves into the story of eight translators who embark on a quest to find the world-renowned author, Irena Rey, who mysteriously goes missing in a primeval Polish forest. As the translators navigate through the forest and unravel the secrets of Irena Rey's life, they are confronted with their own desires and rivalries, leading to a thrilling exploration of art, language, and human connection. Join us for this unforgettable evening of intellectual stimulation and literary discovery. Admission to this event is free, so mark your calendars and don't miss out on this unique opportunity.

Join Margot Douaihy in person on Tuesday, March 12 at 7 PM at Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley for the launch of her highly anticipated second book in the Sister Holiday series, Blessed Water. Sister Holiday, armed with a PI apprentice certificate, is back with a twisty mystery and a burning desire to prove herself. With tattoos covering her body and a gold tooth as sharp as her wit, Sister Holiday is determined to walk the righteous path. She is ready to take her permanent vows with the Sisters of the Sublime Blood and become part of Redemption Detective Agency, led by former fire inspector Magnolia Riveaux. However, their mission to catch a cheating husband takes a dark turn when they stumble upon the body of a priest in the swollen Mississippi River. This unexpected discovery becomes Redemption's next case, pushing Sister Holiday to rely on her faith and solve the murder to protect her community. As New Orleans is engulfed in a torrential rainstorm over Easter weekend, Sister Holiday and Riveaux navigate the treacherous floodwaters in search of answers. Blessed Water is a gripping and poetic exploration of obsession, deception, and the quest for truth. Margot Douaihy, an acclaimed author and creative writing professor at Emerson College, delivers an electrifying mystery that will leave readers breathless. Mark your calendars for this not-to-be-missed event and experience the thrilling world of Sister Holiday firsthand. Admission is free, so don't miss out on this unforgettable evening with Margot Douaihy.

Join author Jeffrey Richards at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley on Thursday, March 21 at 7 PM for an engaging discussion about his new novel, We Are Only Ghosts. Accompanied by special guest Kim van Alkemade, Richards will delve into the gripping tale of a teenage boy's intricate relationship with a Nazi officer in a WWII death camp, which resurfaces in 1960s New York City. We Are Only Ghosts is a compelling portrayal of queer love amidst the horrors of war and the lingering trauma of those who survived. This novel masterfully balances the brutality and hatred of the war with tender moments of joy and compassion. Fans of A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara, The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne, and Young Mungo by Douglas Stuart will find themselves captivated by this unforgettable story. Set in 1968 New York City, the enchanting Café Marie serves as the backdrop for Charles Ward, the headwaiter who expertly creates an atmosphere of elegance and escapism. Having honed his skill of remaining unseen during his harrowing experiences as a Jewish boy in war-torn Europe, Charles catches the attention of Obersturmführer Berthold Werden, a Nazi officer who becomes both his savior and tormentor. Deported to Auschwitz at the age of seventeen, Charles finds himself hiding in Berthold's home. Their complicated relationship intertwines love and hatred, which resurfaces when Berthold unexpectedly walks into Café Marie. As Charles is pulled back into Berthold's world, he must confront his painful past and the desire for revenge. Will he lose his only connection to his past or finally find solace? Jeffrey L. Richards, an accomplished author and playwright, shares his profound storytelling abilities in We Are Only Ghosts. Originally from Oklahoma, Richards now resides in New Jersey with his rescue dog, Andi. Don't miss this opportunity to meet the author in person and discover the haunting world of We Are Only Ghosts. Admission to the event at the Odyssey Bookshop is free.

Mark Cecil will be presenting his book, "Bunyan and Henry; Or, the Beautiful Destiny: A Novel," in person on Tuesday, March 26 at 7 PM at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley. This highly anticipated debut novel reimagines two beloved all-American legends, Paul Bunyan and John Henry, in a thrilling adventure that delves deeply into themes of race, class, and industrialization. In this epic tale, we meet Paul Bunyan, a legendary lumberjack who finds himself burdened by family debts and trapped in the bleak, controlled world of Lump Town. When his wife Lucette falls ill due to the toxic mineral Lump, Bunyan embarks on a quest to save her, guided only by the enigmatic Chilali. This quest leads him to The Windy City, where he encounters John Henry, a fugitive on the run from a rigged and racist prison system. Together, Bunyan and Henry strive to reunite with their loved ones, facing riddles, forging weapons, battling giants, and confronting the deceitful El Boffo at every turn. "Bunyan and Henry" is a thought-provoking reinvention of myth that explores the two sides of the American dream and serves as an origin story for these iconic heroes. This modern fable challenges readers to consider the wild idealism and dark underbelly of the American dream, inspiring us all to awaken the folk hero within. Mark Cecil, the author of this captivating novel, is known for his work as the host of The Thoughtful Bro show, where he interviews a diverse range of storytellers. With a background in journalism and experience teaching writing, Cecil brings his expertise and passion to his first book. Don't miss the opportunity to meet Mark Cecil in person on March 26 at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley. Admission is free, and this event promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Join Elizabeth Kolbert on Thursday, April 4, at 7 PM at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley as she presents her new book, H is for Hope. In this thought-provoking work, Kolbert takes readers on a captivating journey through the history of climate change and the uncertainties of our future. With twenty-six essays—one for each letter of the alphabet—she delves into the landscape of climate change and the urgent decisions that need to be made. From Svante Arrhenius, who created the world's first climate model in 1894, to the Colorado River Basin, ground zero for climate change in the United States, Kolbert explores various aspects of this pressing issue. She examines Greta Thurnburg's impactful speech, flies an all-electric plane, conducts experiments on the effects of extreme temperatures on the human body, and confronts the deep uncertainty surrounding the future of climate change. Illustrated by Wesley Allsbrook, H is for Hope offers a unique and captivating examination of our changing world. Elizabeth Kolbert, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and staff writer for The New Yorker, has received numerous accolades for her work. Don't miss this exclusive ticketed event, where the price of admission includes a copy of H is for Hope. Secure your spot now and join Kolbert in person for an enlightening discussion on climate change.

Attend the event "Thomas Suárez in Person" on April 19, 2024, at 7 PM at Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley. Thomas Suárez will discuss his book "Palestine Hijacked: How Zionism Forged an Apartheid State from River to Sea." Delve into the shocking history of how Zionist militias used terror to establish an apartheid settler state in Palestine. Uncover the truth behind the Israel-Palestine conflict, revealing a violent takeover by a European racial-nationalist movement. Suárez's research, including newly-revealed documents, exposes the deliberate and sustained use of terrorism to achieve Zionist goals. Learn about the atrocities committed against Palestinians, British supporters of Zionism, and dissenting Jews. Discover how Israel's regime of Apartheid and land expropriation were not accidental outcomes, but intentional objectives of Zionism from its inception. Join historical researcher and author, Thomas Suárez, a Juilliard-trained violinist, as he sheds light on this critical chapter of history. Admission to this enlightening event is free.

Join Neel Mukherjee in person on Thursday, April 25 at 7 PM at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley. Neel Mukherjee will be presenting his new novel, Choice, which has been selected as the April choice for our First Editions Club. Choice, described as an ingenious, devastating, and explosive novel, explores the profound impact of the decisions we make. Ayush, a London-based publisher, becomes obsessed with the question of how one ought to live, prompting him to question every act of consumption. Ayush embarks on a radical experiment in his own life and the lives of those around him, including his economist husband, their twins, and the authors he works with. Through interconnected narratives, Choice challenges our assumptions about economics, race, appropriation, and the complexities of contemporary life. Neel Mukherjee, a highly acclaimed author, has received numerous awards for his previous works, including the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain Award, the Royal Society of Literature's Encore Award, and being shortlisted for the Booker Prize. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with a thought-provoking author. This event is free of charge. Come and be part of an evening that explores the power of choice and its consequences.

Join Keith O'Brien on Tuesday, April 30 at 7 PM at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley, MA as he presents his new book, Charlie Hustle: The Rise and Fall of Pete Rose, and the Last Glory Days of Baseball. In this captivating chronicle, O'Brien delves into the incredible story of baseball legend Pete Rose, exploring his rise to fame and subsequent downfall amidst one of the biggest scandals in baseball history. Through firsthand interviews, investigative reports, and court records, O'Brien provides a comprehensive account of Rose's life and the cultural changes that reshaped America and baseball in the second half of the twentieth century. This extraordinary biography not only sheds light on Rose's complex journey, but also offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of America's favorite pastime. Don't miss this opportunity to discover the definitive account of one of the most fascinating figures in American sports history. Admission is free.

Attend Anna Noyes in Person on Wednesday, May 22 at 7 PM at Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley. Anna Noyes will discuss her latest novel, The Blue Maiden, a compelling tale set on an isolated Northern European island in 1825. The story follows two sisters, Beata and Ulrika, who navigate life in a community haunted by accusations of witchcraft. As they unravel family secrets and confront societal constraints, a mysterious visitor disrupts their world, leading to shocking revelations. The narrative delves into themes of lineage, resilience, and the struggles of women in a patriarchal society. Anna Noyes, acclaimed author of Goodnight, Beautiful Women, brings her evocative storytelling to this Nordic Gothic masterpiece. Don't miss this opportunity to meet the author and delve into the captivating world she has crafted. Admission to the event is free.

Don't miss the chance to meet Essie Chambers in person at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley on June 12, 2024. Chambers will be discussing her debut novel, Swift River, a captivating family saga that delves into the intricate relationships between mothers and daughters, the mystery surrounding a missing father, and the untold history of a fading New England mill town. Set in the summer of 1987, Swift River follows Diamond Newberry as she navigates the complexities of her past while uncovering long-buried family secrets. Through a letter from a previously unknown relative, Diamond unravels the multigenerational history of the African American Newberry women, shedding light on themes of prejudice, love, and resilience. As the pieces of her family's past come together, Diamond gains a new perspective on her identity and future. Essie Chambers, a talented author with a background in film and television, brings a fresh voice to the literary scene with Swift River. This event is free to attend, offering a unique opportunity to engage with Chambers and explore the powerful themes within her novel.

Experience the unveiling of 'Pemi Aguda's inaugural collection, Ghostroots: Stories, on Monday, June 17 at 7 PM. Delve into a captivating world where characters in Lagos, Nigeria, strive to break free from their ancestral bonds. Through twelve thought-provoking tales, 'Pemi Aguda skillfully portrays the struggle between individuality and the weight of the past. Witness a mother confronted by her abusive mother's ghost in her own child's visage, leading to sinister consequences in "Manifest." Explore themes of forgiveness, feminism, and parenthood in "Breastmilk," as well as the unnerving discovery made by fathers in "Things Boys Do." "24, Alhaji Williams Street" sheds light on a mysterious illness plaguing young boys in the neighborhood, unraveling dark truths. 'Pemi Aguda, an MFA graduate from the University of Michigan, showcases her talent through a blend of empathy and wit in these narratives. Prepare to embark on a literary journey that exposes the intricate dynamics of family, tradition, and modernity in Nigerian society. Don't miss this opportunity to meet the author at Odyssey Bookshop, 9 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075, on June 17, 2024, at 7 PM. Admission is free.

Attend the event "Bill Roorbach in person" on July 30, 2024, at 7 PM in South Hadley. Bill Roorbach will discuss his latest novel, Beep, a captivating story narrated by Beep, a squirrel monkey, who, alongside a remarkable young girl named Inga, navigates a world in crisis. Through Beep's adventures from the Costa Rican rainforest to Manhattan, the novel sheds light on humanity's impact on the planet and the importance of unity and action. With a diverse array of insightful animal characters, Beep offers a fresh perspective on our society's behaviors, follies, and potential for positive change. Author Bill Roorbach, known for a range of acclaimed works, will share his inspiration and writing journey during the event at Odyssey Bookshop, located at 9 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075. Admission to this engaging discussion is free, providing an opportunity to delve into the profound themes of Beep and gain valuable insights into contemporary environmental challenges and human nature.

Bhuchung D Sonam is a poet, writer, translator and publisher. His books include Songs from Dewachen, Songs of the Arrow and Yak Horns: Notes on Contemporary Tibetan Writing, Music and Film & Politics. He has edited Muses in Exile: An Anthology of Tibetan Poetry and has compiled and translated Burning the Sun’s Braids: New Poetry from Tibet. He is a founding member and editor of TibetWrites and its imprint Blackneck Books, which promotes and publishes the creative works of Tibetans. His writings are published in the Washington Post, Asahi Weekly, Journal of Indian Literature, HIMAL Southasian, Hindustan Times and Tibetan Review among others. In June 2022, he was awarded the Ostana Prize Youth Award in the category of ‘Writings in Mother Tongue' and was profiled in the New York Times for his literary contributions. He has attended Bangalore Poetry Festival, Sahityotsav 2023 – A Festival of Letters and Jaipur Literature Festival (2024). Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

Join us on Thursday, October 31 at 7 PM as poet Mosab Abu Toha presents his new collection, Forest of Noise. This is his first collection since the events of October 7 and the November pick of our First Editions Club. About the Book A powerful, capacious, and profound (Ocean Vuong) new collection of poems about life in Gaza by an award-winning Palestinian poet. Barely thirty years old, Mosab Abu Toha was already a well-known poet when the current siege of Gaza began. After the Israeli army bombed and destroyed his house, pulverizing a library he had painstakingly built for community use, he and his family fled for their safety. Not for the first time in their lives. Somehow, amid the chaos, Abu Toha kept writing poems. These are those poems. Uncannily clear, direct, and beautifully tuned, they form one of the most astonishing works of art wrested from wartime. Here are directives for what to do in an air raid; here are lyrics about the poet’s wife, singing to his children to distract them. Huddled in the dark, Abu Toha remembers his grandfather’s oranges, his daughter’s joy in eating them. Moving between glimpses of life in relative peacetime and absurdist poems about surviving in a barely livable occupation, Forest of Noise invites a wide audience into an experience that defies the imagination—even as it is watched live. Abu Toha's poems introduce readers to his extended family, some of them no longer with us. This is an urgent, extraordinary, and arrestingly whimsical book. Searing and beautiful, it brings us indelible art in a time of terrible suffering. About the AuthorMOSAB ABU TOHA is a Palestinian poet, short-story writer, and essayist from Gaza. His first collection of poetry, Things You May Find Hidden in My Ear, was a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award for Poetry and won the Palestine Book Award, the American Book Award, and the Walcott Poetry Prize. Abu Toha is also the founder of the Edward Said Library in Gaza, which he hopes to rebuild. He recently won an Overseas Press Club Award for his “Letter from Gaza” columns for The New Yorker. He is currently living in Syracuse. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite