From religious persecution to power structures and journalistic values, Lake Oswego Reads’ 2024 selection “Honor” by Thrity Umrigar provides ample subject matter for readers and inspiration for this month’s slate of events.
Though one could find value in any of the myriad events throughout April, program organizer Nancy Niland selected a few must-see happenings that local residents should consider attending.
India’s transformation
Lewis & Clark professor David Campion will provide historical context to the events in “Honor” through his presentation “The Transformation of Modern India” at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 3 at the Oregon Heritage House. Campion will then discuss law, tradition and power in India during a separate talk at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 23 at the library. Niland noted that Lake Oswego residents are very interested in history and that history buffs should strongly consider attending. Campion has deeply studied India and the British Empire in his work.
“Now it’s (India) a rising superpower with a global diaspora and a really fast-growing economy. I think it will be really interesting,” she said.
Journalism talk
Pamplin Media Group’s own J. Brian Monihan and Patrick Malee will engage the audience with thoughts about journalistic objectivity and ethics during a talk at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 10 at the library. Monihan is the president of Pamplin Media Group and Malee is the editor of the Review and other PMG outlets. Niland noted that the main character of “Honor” is a journalist who wrestles with the push and pull between her journalistic values and her personal feelings.
“I think this is going to be more free-ranging because I think it’s such an important topic in society today with quote-unquote fake news and the role of journalism and the role of facts. I think it will be an interesting lecture and also interesting discussions after,” Niland said.
Storywalk
For a bit lighter and more kid-friendly entertainment, the library is hosting a storywalk at West Waluga Park throughout the month. At the walk, families can read a children’s book written by Umrigar, “Sugar and Milk.” The book is “a contemporary and timely story of a young girl who joins her aunt and uncle in a new land,” according to the city website.
Niland added: “It’s beautifully illustrated and has a nice message about being from another culture and integrating here while maintaining the beauty of your own culture. We thought the message was perfect.”
Niland added that storywalks provide the dual benefit for kids of engagement with reading and nature and said having to walk or run to each station adds an element of suspense.
Author presentation
Umrigar will visit the Lake Oswego community to discuss the book with Oregon author Sindya Bhanoo, who wrote the collection of short stories “Seeking Fortune Elsewhere,” at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 25 at the Lakeridge High School auditorium.
Niland noted that both authors have worked as journalists and will bring that perspective to the table.
“I think the element of journalism is going to play a little more heavily a role than it would have because they are both journalists and it is a major theme in the book,” Niland said.
There were still a few tickets available for this presentation at the time of publication and TVCTV will livestream the event.
For more information about the Lake Oswego Reads program, visit www.ci.oswego.or.us/loreads.
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