Community Calendar

WWII intrigue meets the art of storytelling in a behind-the-scenes conversation with acclaimed YA authors Claudia Friddell and Kip Wilson.

Join us at Holyoke Community College’s Kittridge Center on Wednesday, March 4 for an engaging, behind-the-scenes conversation with acclaimed YA and middle grade authors Claudia Friddell and Kip Wilson. From the intrigue of WWII spycraft to the craft of writing for young readers, they’ll explore their latest books, The Mysterious Virginia Hall and Backpack, Boy, Berlin, reveal how they research and build new stories, and share how their experiences as educators continue to shape their work. Don’t miss this lively evening of history, creativity, and inspiration.

This program is sponsored in part by the Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Eastern Region Program, coordinated by Waynesburg University; the Massachusetts Center for the Book; and Holyoke Community College.

On Thursday March 19th, join Canadian musician Melissa Auf der Maur, former bassist for Hole and The Smashing Pumpkins for the Hudson launch of her new memoir Even the Good Girls Will Cry: A ‘90s Rock Memoir (Da Capo Press). Auf der Maur will be joined in conversation by a special guest followed by a book signing and xMAdMx Darkwave DJ set.

A remarkably open-hearted, clear-eyed memoir of the '90s Alternative era by the bassist of Hole and The Smashing Pumpkins.

Join the Easthampton Public Library for a family-friendly event with Lisa Stringfellow, author of the Massachusetts Book Awards–honored novel Kingdom of Dust. Stringfellow will read from her work, share folktales that have influenced her storytelling, and talk about the traditions and inspirations that shape her fantasy worlds. The program will conclude with an audience Q&A.

Honored in the Mass Book Awards in the Middle Grade/YA category, Kingdom of Dust follows Amara, a young girl on a quest to find her land’s lost storytellers in order to save her family and society. Drawing inspiration from West African mythology, the novel blends lush prose with accessible writing for readers of all ages. Amara’s journey—rooted in themes of climate justice, cultural memory, and the restoration of her people’s stories—has earned the book recognition within the growing canon of modern fantasy for children.

This program is sponsored by the Mass Book Awards Speakers Bureau and is presented in collaboration with the Massachusetts Center for the Book.

LISA STRINGFELLOW is a middle-grade author and longtime educator who has taught Language Arts and technology to middle-school students for over 30 years. She writes fantasy with a dark, folkloric twist, inspired by her love of fairy tales. A member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, the Authors Guild, and Black Creators HQ, she is an active advocate for equity and inclusivity in children’s literature.

This three-day retreat invites women to deepen their relationship with themselves and others through expressive arts, reflection, and heartfelt connection. Held at the historic Wiawaka Center for Women on Lake George, The Art of Relating: Pathways to Expression offers a spacious, restorative environment to slow down and reconnect with what feels true.

Now in its third year, the retreat blends intentional creativity, movement, time in nature, and soulful conversation to support women in strengthening self-trust, clarity, and authentic expression. Guided by relationship coach and author Joëlle Lydon, and rooted in the teachings of her book Unbreakable Us: Removing the Barriers to Love, this experience is ideal for women seeking meaningful connection, personal renewal, and grounded insight into how they relate.

No artistic experience required. Lodging and meals included.