Northbrook Public Library invites the community to read Clark and Division by Naomi Hirahara and then join them in October for a series of programs that explore the book’s themes. The highlight of the series will be a visit from the book's author, Naomi Hirahara on Wednesday, October 18 at 7pm. The best-selling author of Clark and Division will join us in the Auditorium to discuss her book and answer questions from the audience. This event will also be live-streamed on Zoom for those who cannot attend in person.
The library's community read features over 10 programs, including live music, book discussions, lectures, an art exhibit, and more centered around the themes Clark and Division by Naomi Hirahara, a poignant mystery that sheds light on the struggles of one Japanese American family released from mass incarceration at Manzanar during World War II. To learn more about One Book, One Northbrook and register for programs, visit www.northbrook.info/onebook or call the library at 847-272-6224.
Copies of Clark and Division are available to check out at the library. eBook and eAudiobook versions are also available with a library card. Attendees of the One Book, One Northbrook Kick-Off event on Saturday, September 30 will also have the chance to enter to win a free copy of the book. Copies may also be purchased at the Book Bin in Northbrook.
Join us to kick off One Book, One Northbrook
The One Book, One Northbrook Kickoff Event will take place outside the library’s east entrance on Saturday, September 30, from 10:30 to 1:00pm. Attendees are invited to enjoy live jazz music from Yoko Noge, plus enjoy snacks and crafts. Registration is not required for this outdoor drop-in event, which will be held rain or shine.
How the title was selected
Clark and Division was selected after reviewing over 50 titles suggested by community members, local teachers, and library staff. After paring down the contenders, library staff discussed and rated the finalists with a group of teens and adults from the community.
Impressed by the book’s ability to make serious issues approachable, Adult Services Supervisor Phil Collins explains the book's wide appeal, saying “Clark and Division gives the reader a look into a rarely discussed time in Chicago history through the lens of a seasoned mystery writer.” Librarian Caitlyn Hannon explains, “Clark and Division encompasses a variety of themes that can pique different readers’ interests, so I hope patrons enjoy discussing the book and checking out the programs to learn more.”
About Clark and Division
Set in 1944 Chicago, Edgar Award-winner Naomi Hirahara’s eye-opening and poignant mystery sheds light on the struggles of one Japanese American family released from mass incarceration at Manzanar during World War II.
About the author
Naomi Hirahara, the Edgar Award-winning author of multiple traditional mystery series and noir short stories, was born in 1962 in Pasadena, California to survivors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Shortly after the end of World War II, her parents returned to California (her father’s birthplace) making a new home in Altadena. Having received a degree in International Relations from Stanford University, she became a reporter and editor of The Rafu Shimpo during the height of the reparations movement for Japanese Americans who were forcibly removed from their homes during World War II. She builds on her personal and career history studying the internees to bring the Ito family's journey in Clark and Division to life.
One Book, One Northbrook Sponsors
We thank the Friends of the Northbrook Public Library and the Thomas & Kathleen Laird Family Foundation for their generous sponsorship of One Book, One Northbrook.
