New England native and author Holly Thompson will visit the library to discuss and sign copies of her book Listening to Trees: George Nakashima, Woodworker, which is a poetic picture book for young readers celebrating the life and work of the visionary Japanese American woodworker George Nakashima. 

Holly was inspired to write the book by George's life story.  During WW2, George and his family endured incarceration in Minidoka prison camp, where he drew comfort from the discipline of woodworking. Once free, he dedicated his life to crafting furniture from fallen or discarded trees, giving fresh purpose and dignity to each tree while promoting a more peaceful and creative world.

Holly is an author and creative writing teacher who divides her time between New England and Japan. She narrates Nakashima's life through haibun, a combination of haiku and prose, which twines smoothly through earthy illustrations provided by animator and children's book author Toshiki Nakamura. The book includes a foreword by George Nakashima's daughter offering further insights into the work of a master artisan.  

During her author visit, in addition to reading and signing books, Holly will also share a presentation which includes slides depicting George's workshop and woodworking process. She'll follow this with some interactive haiku writing, with prompts related to a journey, a place, and an outdoor experience.

Attendees can buy copies of the book and have them signed during the event. Our wonderful local bookstore, Innisfree Bookshop, will be onsite at the library sell of copies of the book.  Copies can also be bought ahead of time at Innisfree.