'One Book, One Northbrook' Program Returns With Events Through October

NORTHBROOK, IL — The popular "One Book, One Northbrook" program is set to return this weekend with a series of events planned through the end of October. This year's selection is "Clark and Division," by Naomi Hirahara, who will be attending a live discussion on Oct. 18 at the Northbrook Public Library.

According to the library, the book is set in 1944 Chicago and "examines the themes of race, prejudice, and belonging, telling the story of a young woman's journey to find the truth behind her sister's death." A New York Times bestseller, "Clark and Division" is available through the library, eBook, or eAudiobook in the library's catalog.

Here is a breakdown of upcoming events associated with "One Book, One Northbrook," according to the library:

• One Book Kickoff & Live Jazz Concert Featuring Yoko Noge — Saturday, September 30, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., outside the library's east entrance (concert starts at 11 a.m.). Drop by to help us kick off "One Book, One Northbrook" with a live performance by jazz artist Yoko Noge, plus snacks, crafts, and the chance to win a copy of this year's One Book, One Northbrook selection, "Clark and Division."
• Book Discussion: Clark and Division (Virtual) — Tuesday, October 3, 11:00am-12:00pm — Join librarian Phil Collins on Zoom to discuss "Clark and Division." Register now
• Youth Book Discussion: Fred Korematsu Speaks Up (Grades 4-6) — Tuesday, October 3, 4:00-5:00pm, YS Activity Room. Students in grades 4-6 are invited to read "Fred Korematsu Speaks Up," then join us for activities, discussion, and snacks. Register now
• A Tour of Chicago's Historic Japanese American Neighborhoods — Wednesday, October 11, 7:00-8:00pm, Auditorium. Erik Matsunaga and his guests will lead us through Chicago's historic Japanese American neighborhoods while sharing memories of the area. Register now
• "Clark and Division" Book Discussion — Thursday, October 12, 7:00-8:00pm, Civic Room. Join librarian Lori Siegel to Clark and Division in the library's Civic Room. Register now
• Japanese Floral Arrangements Demonstration — Thursday, October 17, 2:00-3:00pm, Pollak Room. Paula Danoff, a Sogetsu School of Ikebana (Japanese Flower Arranging) instructor, will demonstrate how to make flower arrangements in three different styles. Sponsored by the Friends of the Northbrook Public Library. Register now
• Author Event: An Evening with Naomi Hirahara — Wednesday, October 18, 7:00-8:00pm, Auditorium (and streaming). We welcome Naomi Hirahara, author of "Clark and Division," to the Auditorium for a live conversation and Q&A. The event will also be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person. Sponsored by the Friends of the Northbrook Public Library. Register now
• Movie: Farewell to Manzanar — Thursday, October 19, 2:00-4:00pm, Auditorium. Inspired by the memoir of the same name, this film retells the author's life experiences of her and her Japanese American family's imprisonment in California's Manzanar Internment Camp following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Sponsored by the Friends of the Northbrook Public Library. Register now
• Anne Shimojima Japanese Folklore and Storytelling (Families) — Saturday, October 21, 10:30-11:15am, Pollak Room. Professional storyteller, third-generation Japanese American, and local Chicagoan Anne Shimojima will tell stories that sparkle with magic, laughter, and wisdom that reflect the culture of her family's Japanese heritage. Recommended for ages 6 & up with a caregiver. Register now
• A Look Inside the Newberry Library (Virtual) — Wednesday, October 25, 7:00-8:00pm. A Newberry Library staff member will join us virtually to give a tour of the space and delve further into its significance in "Clark and Division." Register now
• Teen Book Discussion: We Are Not Free (Grades 6-12) — Thursday, October 26, 5:00-6:00pm, Civic Room Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to join us to discuss "We Are Not Free," by Traci Chee and enjoy some snacks. The first 8 registered teens will also receive a free copy of the book. This program is part of our Books & Bites program. Register now
• Chado, the Way of Tea: Japanese Tea Ceremony — Saturday, October 28, 10:30am-12:00pm, Pollak Room Learn about the history of this 500-year-old art form, then unwind with a relaxing and meditative Japanese Tea Ceremony demonstration. Register now (THIS PROGRAM IS FULL)
• Tsukasa Taiko Drumming — Monday, October 30, 7:00-8:00pm, Auditorium. Enjoy this invigorating performance of the Japanese drums, led by renowned musician Tatsu Aoki who is known for blending Japanese and American musical stylings. Register now
• Photo Exhibit: Japanese American Experience. October, 2nd floor. In partnership with the Japanese American Service Committee (JASC), the fascinating exhibit will feature a collection of photographs and documents that explore the challenges, resilience, and cultural contributions of the Japanese American community in Chicago.