Featured Events in South Hadley in June, 2024(December Updated)

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.

Don't miss the opportunity to hear Morgan Talty discuss his latest novel, Fire Exit, in a conversation with Isaac Fitzgerald on Wednesday, June 5 at 7 PM at Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley. Talty, a member of the Penobscot Indian Nation, delves into themes of family, legacy, and culture in this compelling debut. Fire Exit follows Charles Lamosway as he grapples with his past on the Penobscot Reservation and the hidden truth about his daughter, Elizabeth. As the story unfolds, secrets unravel, relationships are tested, and the complexities of heritage are explored. Award-winning author Morgan Talty's narrative promises an immersive experience that delves deep into the complexities of identity and connection. This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with a thought-provoking literary work and gain insights from the author himself. Admission is free, so mark your calendars for an evening of enriching dialogue and literary exploration at Odyssey Bookshop.

Experience an enlightening evening on Tuesday, June 11 at 7 PM at Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley, MA, as Kellie Carter Jackson introduces her latest work, "We Refuse: A Forceful History of Black Resistance." Delve into a profound reevaluation of Black resistance to white supremacy, exploring a spectrum beyond the oversimplified narratives of nonviolence versus violence. Historian Kellie Carter Jackson sheds light on the diverse strategies employed by Black individuals, especially women, to combat oppression. Acknowledging the significance of all forms of resistance, including forceful actions, Carter Jackson highlights the pivotal role of tactics like work stoppages, property destruction, and armed uprisings throughout history. While violence has been crucial in the fight for liberty, the book also celebrates alternative methods such as finding joy amidst adversity and the power of silent defiance. As the Michael and Denise Kellen '68 Associate Professor of Africana Studies at Wellesley College, Kellie Carter Jackson brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to this exploration of Black resilience and the quest for freedom. Admission to the event is free, offering a unique opportunity to engage with this transformative narrative.

Mark your calendars for Catherine Newman's in-person appearance at Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley on June 18, 2024. The event, launching her latest novel "Sandwich," promises an evening filled with humor and emotion as Newman takes readers on a journey through a family's summer vacation. Join Rocky and her loved ones as they navigate the complexities of life, love, and aging against the backdrop of a quaint Cape Cod rental. As Rocky confronts the challenges of menopause and family dynamics, unexpected events force her to confront long-buried secrets. Catherine Newman, a prolific writer known for her insightful columns and bestselling books, brings her unique storytelling to life in this heartwarming tale. Don't miss this opportunity to meet the author behind "Sandwich" and delve into a world of laughter, tears, and ultimately, acceptance. Admission is free, so reserve your spot now for an unforgettable evening with Catherine Newman.