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

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.

Rachel Lyon in Person, a highly anticipated arts event, is set to take place on March 4, 2024, in the picturesque South Hadley. This captivating extravaganza will unfold at the renowned Odyssey Bookshop, nestled at 9 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075. The event promises to be a mesmerizing experience, as attendees will have the unique opportunity to witness Rachel Lyon, a brilliant artist, showcase her exceptional talents and share her artistic journey. The best part? Admission is absolutely free, ensuring that art enthusiasts from all walks of life can partake in this extraordinary event. Prepare to be enthralled as Rachel Lyon graces the stage, captivating the audience with her awe-inspiring creations. Whether you're an admirer of visual arts, a lover of literature, or simply seeking inspiration, Rachel Lyon in Person is a must-attend affair. Mark your calendars, secure your spot, and get ready for an unforgettable encounter with the artistic genius of Rachel Lyon.

Join us on Tuesday, March 5 at 7 PM at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley, MA as Mickey Rathbun presents her new book, The Real Gatsby: A Granddaughter's Memoir. Mickey Rathbun will be joined in conversation by Martha Ackmann, an author and journalist known for her work on women who have changed America. In The Real Gatsby: George Gordon Moore, Rathbun delves into the captivating story of her grandfather, exploring the intriguing connections between his life and the iconic character of Jay Gatsby. Drawing parallels between their western backgrounds, time spent in England, questionable sources of wealth, and unattainable love interests, Rathbun uncovers the remarkable similarities that shape these two individuals. It is revealed that Moore was not only a friend and business partner of Tommy Hitchcock, the real-life inspiration for Tom Buchanan in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, but also a part of the social circle that inspired The Great Gatsby. This memoir offers an honest examination of Moore's extraordinary life and the enduring themes of wealth, social status, and the elusive American Dream. Mickey Rathbun is an accomplished writer and former lawyer based in Western Massachusetts, known for her features and essays published in esteemed publications such as the Boston Globe, the Chicago Tribune, and Salon.com. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insight into the captivating life of George Gordon Moore and the connections that inspired one of America's most beloved literary characters. Admission is free for this event.

Join Cara Black on Wednesday, March 13 at 7 PM at the Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley, MA for a captivating presentation of her latest mystery novel, Murder at La Villette. This thrilling installment of Cara Black’s renowned New York Times bestselling series follows Parisian private investigator Aimée Leduc as she navigates a treacherous path to clear her name. Aimée finds herself framed for the murder of her daughter’s father and must uncover the truth behind the crime. As she delves deeper into the investigation, Aimée discovers a web of deception and danger in Paris’s 19th arrondissement. From biker gangs to secretive ex-cops, she encounters a cast of intriguing characters along the way. Cara Black’s masterful storytelling will keep you on the edge of your seat as Aimée races against time to find the real killer. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet the acclaimed author and immerse yourself in the atmospheric world of Aimée Leduc. Admission to this highly anticipated event is free. Mark your calendars for an evening of mystery and intrigue on March 13th at the Odyssey Bookshop.