Latest Events in South Hadley (Continuously Updated)

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

About the BookFrom the award-winning and bestselling author of Feed comes a raucous and slyly funny adult fiction debut. Based on a bizarre but true quest to steal the mystical corpse of a long-dead saint, Nicked is a fantastical, genre-defying, and delightfully queer historical romp. Miracles, marvels, saints, sinners, love, plague, and treachery! M. T. Anderson has laid out a medieval feast of a novel, stuffed with everything I could have wished for. If I could canonize him for it, I would. But I’ll settle for shouting about how much I love this book. —Kelly Link, author of The Book of Love M. T. Anderson is one of our greatest and most precious voices. His books aren't just brilliantly witty and vastly entertaining, they're fixed stars of wisdom and sanity in our increasingly unhinged universe. When lost, I use them to steer by. —Lev Grossman, author of The Magicians Trilogy and The Bright Sword The year is 1087, and a pox is sweeping through the Italian city of Bari. When a lowly monk is visited by Saint Nicholas in his dreams, he interprets the vision as a call to serve the sick. But his superiors, and the power brokers they serve, have different plans for the tender-hearted Brother Nicephorus. Enter Tyun, a charismatic treasure hunter renowned for “liberating” holy relics from their tombs. The seven-hundred-year-old bones of Saint Nicholas are rumored to weep a mysterious liquid that can heal the sick, Tyun says. For the humble price of a small fortune, he will steal the bones and deliver them to Bari, curing the plague and restoring glory to the fallen city. And Nicephorus, the “dreamer,” will be his guide. What follows is a heist for the ages, as Nicephorus is swept away on strange tides, and alongside even stranger bedfellows, to commit sacrilegious theft. Based on real historical accounts, Nicked is a swashbuckling saga, a medieval novel noir, a meditation on the miraculous, and a monastic meet-cute, filled with wide-eyed wonder at the world that awaits beyond our own borders. About the AuthorM. T. Anderson has written a wide variety of titles, including works of fantasy and satire for a range of ages. Anderson grew up outside of Boston, Massachusetts. He was educated in English literature at Harvard University and Cambridge University, and went on to receive his MFA in Creative Writing from Syracuse University. M. T. Anderson is the author of a number of celebrated books including the Thrilling Tales series, as well as The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume 1, The Pox Party, which won the National Book Award and a Printz Honor, and The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves, which also won a Printz Honor. Feedwas a finalist for the National Book Award and won the L.A. Times Book Award for YA fiction in 2003 and was a finalist for the Boston Globe/Horn Book Award. M. T. Anderson currently lives in Boston, Massachusetts. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

About the BookFrom the nationally bestselling author of the “powerful, heartbreaking” (Shelf Awareness) The Stationery Shop, a heartfelt, epic new novel of friendship, betrayal, and redemption set against three transformative decades in Tehran, Iran. In 1950s Tehran, seven-year-old Ellie lives in grand comfort until the untimely death of her father, forcing Ellie and her mother to move to a tiny home downtown. Lonely and bearing the brunt of her mother’s endless grievances, Ellie dreams of a friend to alleviate her isolation. Luckily, on the first day of school, she meets Homa, a kind, passionate girl with a brave and irrepressible spirit. Together, the two girls play games, learn to cook in the stone kitchen of Homa’s warm home, wander through the colorful stalls of the Grand Bazaar, and share their ambitions for becoming “lion women.” But their happiness is disrupted when Ellie and her mother are afforded the opportunity to return to their previous bourgeois life. Now a popular student at the best girls’ high school in Iran, Ellie’s memories of Homa begin to fade. Years later, however, her sudden reappearance in Ellie’s privileged world alters the course of both of their lives. Together, the two young women come of age and pursue their own goals for meaningful futures. But as the political turmoil in Iran builds to a breaking point, one earth-shattering betrayal will have enormous consequences. Written with Marjan Kamali’s signature “evocative, devastating, and hauntingly beautiful” (Whitney Scharer, author of The Age of Light) prose, The Lion Women of Tehran is a sweeping exploration of how profoundly we are shaped by those we meet when we are young, and the way love and courage transforms our lives. About the AuthorMarjan Kamali, born in Turkey to Iranian parents, spent her childhood in Kenya, Germany, Turkey, Iran, and the United States. She holds degrees from UC Berkeley, Columbia University, and New York University. She is the 2022 recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Creative Writing Award. She is the author of The Lion Women of Tehran, The Stationery Shop, and Together Tea. Marjan lives with her husband in the Boston area. They have two children. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

Join us on Tuesday, November 12 at 7 PM as Janis Hubschman talks about her debut story collection, Take Me With You Next Time. She will be joined in conversation by Celia Jeffries. About the BookJanis Hubschman's debut collection Take Me With You Next Time runs the gamut of emotion with characters who confront crises of infidelity, addiction, death, and dementia. These stories feature women held captive by heartbreak, misguided desire, and bewildering grief, who grapple with past choices and must make new ones. They search for answers from psychics, hypnotists, old lovers, Charles Darwin, and the stars— until, at last, they discover they already possess the courage and insight they seek. With impeccable sentences and unerring, exquisite details, Hubschman's fearless, lucid writing unlocks the worlds of her characters to reveal the human needs and longings we recognize as our own. In Wild Quaker Parrot a sneaky green parrot who may or may not be a reincarnated old boyfriend forces a painter to confront her reckless teenage self. In After the Party a fired golf pro unable to reconcile her husband's infidelity, follows in Ted Kennedy's scandalous footsteps on Chappaquiddick. Morally complex and often wryly funny, Take Me With You Next Time showcases the unpredictable ways smart, resilient women persevere to transcend troublesome events and difficult emotions. About the AuthorJanis Hubschman has published dozens of stories in literary magazines that include Cimarron Review, Colorado Review, Michigan Quarterly Review, Saturday Evening Post, Southern Humanities Review, and West Branch. Her stories have won Bellingham Review’s Tobias Wolff Award and a first-place award from Glimmer Train. Her essays have appeared in The New York Times, Glimmer Train Bulletin, and New York Runner. She was the recipient of a Bread Loaf-Rona Jaffe Fiction Scholarship and a fellowship from the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts. She lives with her husband in New Jersey and currently teaches fiction writing at Montclair State University. Take Me With You Next Time is her first book.Janis Hubschman has published dozens of stories in literary magazines that include Cimarron Review, Colorado Review, Michigan Quarterly Review, Saturday Evening Post, Southern Humanities Review, and West Branch. Her stories have won Bellingham Review’s Tobias Wolff Award and a first-place award from Glimmer Train. Her essays have appeared in The New York Times, Glimmer Train Bulletin, and New York Runner. She was the recipient of a Bread Loaf-Rona Jaffe Fiction Scholarship and a fellowship from the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts. She lives with her husband in New Jersey and currently teaches fiction writing at Montclair State University. Take Me With You Next Time is her first book. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

Join us on Wednesday November 13 at 7 PM as Laura Tillman talks about her James Beard Award-winning book, The Migrant Chef: The Life and Times of Lalo García. About the BookWinner of the 2024 James Beard Foundation's Award for Literary Writing A New Yorker Best Book of 2023 • An NPR 2023 Books We Love Pick A chef’s gripping quest to reconcile his childhood experiences as a migrant farmworker with the rarefied world of fine dining. Born in rural Mexico, Eduardo “Lalo” García Guzmán and his family left for the United States when he was a child, picking fruits and vegetables on the migrant route from Florida to Michigan. He worked in Atlanta restaurants as a teenager before being convicted of a robbery, incarcerated, and eventually deported. Lalo landed in Mexico City as a new generation of chefs was questioning the hierarchies that had historically privileged European cuisine in elite spaces. At his acclaimed restaurant, Máximo Bistrot, he began to craft food that narrated his memories and hopes. Mexico City–based journalist Laura Tillman spent five years immersively reporting on Lalo’s story: from Máximo’s kitchen to the onion fields of Vidalia, Georgia, to Dubai’s first high-end Mexican restaurant, to Lalo’s hometown of San José de las Pilas. What emerges is a moving portrait of Lalo’s struggle to find authenticity in an industry built on the very inequalities that drove his family to leave their home, and of the artistic process as Lalo calls on the experiences of his life to create transcendent cuisine. The Migrant Chef offers an unforgettable window into a family’s border-eclipsing dreams, Mexico’s culinary heritage, and the making of a chef. About the AuthorLaura Tillman is a journalist and the author of The Migrant Chef: The Life and Times of Lalo García (W.W. Norton, 2023), which won the 2024 James Beard Award for Literary Writing, and The Long Shadow of Small Ghosts: Murder and Memory in an American City (Scribner, 2016). She began her career as a newspaper reporter at the U.S.-Mexico border in 2007, before moving to Mexico City in 2014. Her work, which focuses principally on migration, justice, and food, has appeared in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, and The Nation. She graduated from Vassar College with a degree in International Studies and Goucher College with an MFA in Nonfiction Writing. She recently moved to Connecticut to join the staff of the CT Mirror, where she covers mental health, addiction, disability services, food insecurity, and children's issues. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

Join us on Tuesday, November 19 at 7 PM as Luis Jaramillo talks about his new novel, The Witches of El Paso. He will be joined in conversation by Heather Abel. About the BookA lawyer and her elderly great-aunt use their supernatural gifts to find a lost child in this richly imagined and empowering story of motherhood, magic, and legacy in the vein of The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina and La Hacienda. If you call to the witches, they will come. 1943, El Paso, Texas: teenager Nena spends her days caring for the small children of her older sisters, while longing for a life of freedom and adventure. The premonitions and fainting spells she has endured since childhood are getting worse, and Nena worries she’ll end up like the scary old curandera down the street. Nena prays for help, and when the mysterious Sister Benedicta arrives late one night, Nena follows her across the borders of space and time. In colonial Mexico, Nena grows into her power, finding love and learning that magic always comes with a price. In the present day, Nena’s grandniece, Marta, balances a struggling legal aid practice with motherhood and the care of the now ninety-three-year-old Nena. When Marta agrees to help search for a daughter Nena left in the past, the two forge a fierce connection. Marta’s own supernatural powers emerge, awakening her to new possibilities that threaten the life she has constructed. “Sexy, smart, and soulful, Luis Jaramillo’s The Witches of El Paso pulls us across borders and time to get to the essence of what it means for families to survive this beautiful, fractured world” (Mira Jacob, author of Good Talk). About the AuthorLuis Jaramillo is the author of The Witches of El Paso and the award-winning short story collection, The Doctor’s Wife. His writing has appeared in LitHub, BOMB Magazine, Los Angeles Review of Books, and other publications. He is an assistant professor of creative writing at The New School. He received an undergraduate degree from Stanford University and an MFA from The New School. About Heather AbelHeather Abel’s debut novel, THE OPTIMISTIC DECADE, was published in May, 2018. Her writing has appeared in the New York Times, Slate, the Los Angeles Times, and the online Paris Review among other places. She worked as a reporter and editor for the San Francisco Bay Guardian and High Country News, during which time she talked to gold miners, fossil hounds, Native American environmental activists, and really bored teens in rural Utah. She received an MFA in fiction writing from the New School University, and she’s taught writing at the New School, UMass Amherst, and Smith College. Raised in Santa Monica, she now lives in Northampton, MA with her husband and two daughters, and she dreams of the Colorado high desert. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

About the BookA masterly crafted and haunting tale of survival, longing, and empathy, set during the Spanish Civil War. In late 1936, eighteen-year-old Isidro Elejalde leaves his Basque village in Northern Spain, spurred to join the fight to preserve his country's democracy from the insurrectionists by the rousing words of a political essayist. Months earlier, Spanish generals launched a military coup to overthrow Spain's newly elected left-wing government. They assumed the population would welcome the coup, but throughout the country people like Isidro remained loyal to the ideals of democracy, and the Spanish Civil War began in bloody earnest. In Bilbao, Mariana raises her two young children while, with her writing, she decries the fascist-backed coup attempt and their German and Italian allies, imploring the world to support democracy. As the Nationalist forces assault the country, Mariana and Isidro's lives intersect fleetingly, yet in meaningful and lasting ways. Through a chorus of voices--a female soldier in an all-male battalion, a reluctant conscript recently emigrated from Cuba, a young girl whose parents have abandoned her in order to fight against the fascists, among others--we follow Isidro and Mariana as they struggle to maintain their humanity in a country determined to tear itself apart. Julian Zabalbeascoa is a fierce and assured new talent, and What We Tried to Bury Grows Here is a remarkable feat of research and imagination, as well as a transcendent literary accomplishment. About the AuthorJulian Zabalbeascoa’s debut novel What We Tried to Bury Grows Here will be published this fall by Two Dollar Radio. Among other journals, his stories have been published in American Short Fiction, Boulevard, The Common, Copper Nickel, Electric Literature, The Florida Review, The Gettysburg Review, Glimmer Train, One Story, Ploughshares, Ploughshares Solos, and Shenandoah. His interviews and reviews have appeared in The Believer, Electric Literature, The Millions, and Salamander. A dual citizen of Spain and the US, he was born and raised in California’s Central Valley. He earned his MFA in Creative Writing in Madrid from the University of New Orleans and taught at various institutions throughout California before moving to Boston, where he now teaches in the Honors College at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. He leads annual study abroad programs to Belfast, Donostia-San Sebastian, Havana, Madrid, Paris, and Seville. Information Source: Odyssey Bookshop | eventbrite

Join us on Thursday, December 5 at 7 PM as Weike Wang presents her new novel, Rental House. This is the December pick of the Odyssey First Editions Club. About the BookFrom the award-winning author of Chemistry, a sharp-witted, insightful novel about a marriage as seen through the lens of two family vacations Keru and Nate are college sweethearts who marry despite their family differences: Keru’s strict, Chinese, immigrant parents demand perfection (“To use a dishwasher is to admit defeat,” says her father), while Nate’s rural, white, working-class family distrusts his intellectual ambitions and his “foreign” wife. Some years into their marriage, the couple invites their families on vacation. At a Cape Cod beach house, and later at a luxury Catskills bungalow, Keru, Nate, and their giant sheepdog navigate visits from in-laws and unexpected guests, all while wondering if they have what it takes to answer the big questions: How do you cope when your spouse and your family of origin clash? How many people (and dogs) make a family? And when the pack starts to disintegrate, what can you do to shepherd everyone back together? With her “wry, wise, and simply spectacular” style (People) and “hilarious deadpan that recalls Gish Jen and Nora Ephron” (O, The Oprah Magazine), Weike Wang offers a portrait of family that is equally witty, incisive, and tender. About the AuthorWeike Wang is a graduate of Harvard University, where she earned her undergraduate degree in chemistry and her doctorate in public health. She received her MFA from Boston University. Her fiction has been published in literary magazines, including Alaska Quarterly Review, Glimmer Train, and Ploughshares, which also named Chemistry the winner of its John C. Zacharis Award. A “5 Under 35” honoree of the National Book Foundation, Weike currently lives in New York City. 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.

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 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.

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.

Join the festive "Christmas Gnome" Canvas Paint Craze at Drunken Rabbit Brewing on November 6th, 2023. This art event promises an evening of creative fun and holiday cheer in South Hadley, Massachusetts. Located at 749A New Ludlow Road, Drunken Rabbit Brewing provides the perfect backdrop for this imaginative gathering. Immerse yourself in the world of art as you unleash your inner artist and create your very own Christmas gnome masterpiece. No prior painting experience is required, as a professional artist will guide you step by step through the process. Indulge in the joy of painting while sipping on delicious beverages crafted by Drunken Rabbit Brewing. The ticket price is an affordable $40, making this event accessible to all art enthusiasts. Don't miss this opportunity to bring your friends and family together for an unforgettable evening of creativity and holiday spirit. Mark your calendars and get ready to embark on a magical artistic journey at the "Christmas Gnome" Canvas Paint Craze at Drunken Rabbit Brewing on November 6th, 2023.