One Book, One Northbrook presents Clark and Division by Naomi Hirahara
Join us to explore the themes of Clark and Division, our One Book One Northbrook selection, with an exciting lineup of programs, including concerts, movies, book discussions, Japanese cultural demonstrations, a photo exhibit, and more. The highlight of our series will be a discussion with author Naomi Hirahara on October 18 from 7:00-8:00pm in the Auditorium (this event will also be live-streamed).
About the One Book selection, Clark and Division by Naomi Hirahara
Set in 1944 Chicago, this New York Times bestseller 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. Exploring what it means to be Japanese American during WWII, Hirahara uses her extensive knowledge of the time period and internment camps to tell an immersive historical mystery that brings the Ito family's struggles to life.
Find a copy of the book, eBook, or eAudiobook in our catalog.
One Book, One Northbrook Programs
We hope you enjoy these programs that explore the themes of Clark and Division. They have been selected to enrich your understanding, spark engaging discussions, and let you explore Naomi Hirahara's novel in a dynamic and interactive way.
One Book Kickoff & Live Jazz Concert Featuring Yoko Noge
Saturday, September 30, 10:30am-1:00pm, Outside the library's east entrance (concert starts at 11am)
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.
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.
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.
Japanese Floral Arrangements Demonstration
Tuesday, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo Exhibit: Japanese American Experience
October 1-31, 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.
About author Naomi Hirahara
Edgar Award-winning author Naomi Hirahara was born in Pasadena, California, to survivors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. She received her bachelor’s degree in international relations from Stanford University and also studied at the Inter-University Center for Advanced Japanese Language Studies in Tokyo. Later, she became a reporter and later editor of The Rafu Shimpo, the nation's leading Japanese American newspaper, during the culmination of the redress and reparations movement for Japanese Americans who were forcibly removed from their homes during World War II. Her follow-up to Clark and Division, Evergreen, was released in August.
Thank you to our One Book, One Northbrook sponsors
We thank our generous sponsors, The Thomas J. and Kathleen M. Laird Family Foundation and the Friends of the Northbrook Public Library, for sponsoring One Book, One Northbrook.
