Word for WordPLAY: For Families and Young Readers @ Z Space | May 10
The San Francisco-based ensemble that stages classic and contemporary fiction ‘word for word’ launched this program designed for children and families in February. Following the inaugural event and a second one, the “Pajama Fam Jam” in April, the program’s success continues with “Story Pop!” selections from East Bay award-wining author Dave Eggers’ “The Eyes and the Impossible.” Word for Word actors tackle and tickle out a pint-sized stage version perfect for young readers. Eggers’ novel written for all ages tells the story of Johannes, a dog living freely in an urban park. His job is to track everything that happens in the park and report back to three ancient Bison elders. The timeless story about friendship, nature, courage, climate vulnerability, and the importance of liberty rings with resonant truth. Delivered by actors adept at creative storytelling and woven with humor and humanitarianism, the program is a terrific vehicle for engaging the next generation of lit lovers.
May 10 @ 2 p.m. | Free with reservations | zspace.org/wfwplaystorypop
Rebecca Solnit’s Book Launch and Signing @ David Brower Center | May 14
The offsite event hosted by Mrs. Dalloway’s Books features the always astounding author Rebecca Solnit sharing her new book, “No Straight Road Takes You There: Essays for Uneven Terrain.” The award-winning and bestselling author’s latest book delves into the precarious journey across a landscape of uncertainty that constitutes contemporary life. How to shape the future, protect the planet and climate, find acceptance and tap our inner strength, how to choose which beliefs to hold onto and which to set free, and more. If the idea of slowing down weaves through the stories like a connective thread, there is no sign Solnit’s wisdom, wit, and marvelous way with words is in retreat. Ticket prices include one copy of the book. Solnit will be joined in conversation by special guests. A book signing takes place after the presentation.
May 14 from 7-8:30 p.m. | David Brower Center | $21.95-26.95 | MrsDalloways.com
Kwame Alexander and Jerry Craft @ Mrs. Dalloway’s Bookstore | May 19
The Newbery Award winning and bestselling team up at this ticketed in-store event to present their new book, “J vs. K.” Playing up their real life rivalry, Alexander and Craft have devised the story of two fifth grade students facing off in an epic competition for the ages. As expected, J is an artist who crafts wordless stories. K is bent on writing the classic stories of all time before he reaches middle school. A storytelling contest pits artist versus writer; with a truckload of laughs and some good old-fashioned trickery, climbing to reach the climactic conclusion is (almost) as fun as finding out who wins. Adults might like to know the two kids’ victory shines with collaboration and creative problem-solving is exercised and advocated for without ever being overbearing. Due to space limitations, the shop may not be able to accommodate every person, so early registration is encouraged. Ticket price includes one copy of the book.
May 19 from 6:30-8 p.m. | $18.83 | MrsDalloways.com
Briana Loewinsohn: Raised by Ghosts @ A Great Good Place for Books | May 29
Oakland-based cartoonist Briana Loewinsohn introduces her new YA graphic novel, “Raised by Ghosts”. Following the nuance and power of her preempting book, “Ephemera: A Memoir,” the artist explores her teenage years as a middle school student in the early 1990s. Struggling as do many young teens with the tumult of loneliness, lost friendships, family strife and high academic expectations, she trips, but manages to stay vertical. Reaching high school, she turns to newfound friends, finding greater contentment, but is still stressed by home life. When those friends fall away, the young protagonist has no one to turn to for strength but herself. The graphic novel for young adult readers includes Loewinsohn’s first-person class notes and diary entries. Given her gift for telling profound, tender stories of girls and women, adding this second outing to the collection is a wise move. These are YA books ripe for rereading and applicable to multiple life-changing transitions as a reader travels through life.
May 29 @ 7 p.m. | Free | ggpbooks.com
Two Lit Gifts (for any person or occasion this month…graduation, Mother’s Day, etc.) | Throughout May and beyond
Remarkably, two gifts related to books and reading are perfect presents for almost any person or occasion. This is a month filled with celebration of graduates and the moving from one chapter of life to the next. Underscoring the importance of giving thanks to teachers, mentors, advisors, counselors, therapist, parents, caregivers, work bosses and more, how delightful it is to come upon Sarah Ruhl’s new book, “Lessons From My Teachers.” The MacArthur genius recipient, Pulitzer Prize finalist, playwright and author’s new book provides brief essays heralding individuals who provided her with life-affirming lessons. She has learned from many — from teachers to fussy neighbors to her mother, spouse, kids, family dog, and more. Infinitely readable, touching and funny, order a copy from your favorite local bookstore. Give this captivating slim volume to someone special and pen a thank you note telling the recipient why their lessons will last a lifetime.
The second gift relates directly to classroom teachers and is found with a visit to stand-up comedian W. Kamau Bell’s Giving Page at the Donors Choose website (donorschoose.org/kamau). Most folks are not likely to have the $1 million in winnings Bell recently won from from his appearance on Celebrity Jeopardy! Bell chose to donate the entirety to Oakland Donors Choose projects and to schools in his father’s hometown in Mobile, Alabama. However this does not prevent a person from making a contribution to teachers who have posted classroom needs on the site. Donors choose what they want to fund and the amount: students and schools reap the benefits. It is that simple—and with cuts to education a constant concern, it is vital.