BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//CalDiscovery//caldiscovery//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH DESCRIPTION:Chicago: literary\, next 7 days (Thu Sep 17 to Wed Sep 23\, Am erica/Chicago). Rolling: the window moves forward every day\, so subscribe rather than download. Discovered and maintained by CalDiscovery (https:// caldiscovery.com). Event details belong to their publishers. Contains info rmation from CalDiscovery\, which is made available under the ODbL 1.0. SOURCE:https://caldiscovery.com/chicago-il/next-7-days-literary.ics X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT12H REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT12H X-WR-CALDESC:Chicago: literary\, next 7 days (Thu Sep 17 to Wed Sep 23\, A merica/Chicago). Rolling: the window moves forward every day\, so subscrib e rather than download. Discovered and maintained by CalDiscovery (https:/ /caldiscovery.com). Event details belong to their publishers. Contains inf ormation from CalDiscovery\, which is made available under the ODbL 1.0. X-WR-CALNAME:Chicago · literary · next 7 days · CalDiscovery BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:RaDLOW Publication Launch + Reception DTSTART:20260917T050000Z DTEND:20260917T060000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T062357Z UID:event-33335@www.townvue.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Publication Launch for RaDLOW Cohort III and Cohort IV\n\nPric e: $3.97\n\nMore info: https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/radlow-publi cation-launch-reception-33335 LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T062357Z LOCATION:24 East Washington Street #Suite 875\, Chicago\, IL 60602 URL:https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/radlow-publication-launch-recep tion-33335?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:TownVue — Events in Chicago\, IL X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.townvue.com/in/chicago-il/events/education-worksh ops END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Book Talk: The Black Madonna with Christena Cleveland DTSTART:20260917T050000Z DTEND:20260917T060000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T062357Z UID:event-24969@www.townvue.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Public theologian Christena Cleveland will be discussing her n ewest book\, The Black Madonna: Icon of Resistance & Nourisher of Souls!\n \nPrice: $7.18 (Range: $7.18 - $24.18)\n\nMore info: https://www.townvue.c om/Events/Details/book-talk-the-black-madonna-with-christena-cleveland-249 69 LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T062357Z LOCATION:1390 East Hyde Park Boulevard\, Chicago\, IL 60615 URL:https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/book-talk-the-black-madonna-wit h-christena-cleveland-24969?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_cam paign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:TownVue — Events in Chicago\, IL X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.townvue.com/in/chicago-il/events/education-worksh ops END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:A Conversation with Nikita Gill! DTSTART:20260917T050000Z DTEND:20260917T060000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T062357Z UID:event-33226@www.townvue.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Nikita Gill will discuss her newest book STYX: The River\, fol lowed by a book signing. She will be joined in conversation by Erika L. S ánchez\n\nPrice: $29.02\n\nMore info: https://www.townvue.com/Events/Deta ils/a-conversation-with-nikita-gill-33226 LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T062357Z LOCATION:5751 South Woodlawn Avenue\, Chicago\, IL 60637 URL:https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/a-conversation-with-nikita-gill -33226?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:TownVue — Events in Chicago\, IL X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.townvue.com/in/chicago-il/events/education-worksh ops END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:A Catalog of Future Mercies by Serena Chopra DTSTART:20260917T050000Z DTEND:20260917T060000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T062357Z UID:event-33355@www.townvue.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Please join us to celebrate the poetry collection A Catalog of Future Mercies by Serena Chopra\, with Aditi Machado and Divya Victor.\n\ nPrice: Free\n\nMore info: https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/a-catalo g-of-future-mercies-by-serena-chopra-33355 LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T062357Z LOCATION:5233 North Clark Street\, Chicago\, IL 60640 URL:https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/a-catalog-of-future-mercies-by- serena-chopra-33355?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=ch icago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:TownVue — Events in Chicago\, IL X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.townvue.com/in/chicago-il/events/education-worksh ops END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:American Prophets: Writers\, Religion\, and Culture DTSTART:20260917T150000Z DTEND:20260917T220000Z DTSTAMP:20260917T061332Z UID:10252038-1789639200-1789664400@www.choosechicago.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:American Prophets journeys through the pages of American histo ry to explore the influence of religion and spirituality on writers and cu lture\, with interactive displays incorporating more than 100 different cr eative works and writers spanning genres. \nAcross time and tradition\, pr ophets have been those who see what others can’t\, voices with uncommon insight who guide us toward deeper understanding. The writers in the Ameri can Prophets exhibit share that same visionary spark. They’re not prophe ts in the religious sense\, but their words reveal extraordinary awareness of the world around them\, insight born of belief\, experience\, and imag ination. These writers invite us to see our culture\, and ourselves\, thro ugh new eyes. \nVisitors to American Prophets will discover faith-inspired songs including Chance the Rapper’s “Blessings\,” Patti Smith’s “Gloria” and Frank Waln’s “7.” They can compare the imagined wor lds and faiths of Star Trek\, Black Panther and Octavia Butler’s The Par able of the Sower. And laugh through an exploration of holiness in humor w ith comedians including Mindy Kaling\, Patton Oswalt\, Hari Kondabolu and Joan Rivers. \nThe exhibit also includes a wall of religious artifacts fro m famous writers\, including Harold Ramis’ pocket-sized primer The Five- Minute Buddhist\, Flannery O’Connor’s rosary\, Ursula K. Le Guin’s a nnotated copy of the Tao Te Ching\, Samira Ahmed’s amulet with a Muslim prayer\, and Los Lobos singer-songwriter Louie Pérez’s statue of the Sa nto Niño de Atocha. \nAmerican Prophets is a shared journey of reflection \, inspiration\, and connection through stories. Visit Today! Tickets to t he museum are $16 for adults\, $10 for seniors\, students\, and teachers. Free for members and children ages 12 and under. To inquire about discount ed rates for groups of 10 or more\, visit AmericanWritersMuseum.org/visit/ groups/ or call 312-374-8765. LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T061332Z LOCATION:American Writers Museum\, 180 N. Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, IL\, 6 0601\, United States URL:https://www.choosechicago.com/event/american-prophets-writers-religion -and-culture-2/2026-09-17/?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_camp aign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Choose Chicago X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.choosechicago.com/things-to-do/chicago-sports END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:BYOBook Club DTSTART:20260917T180000Z DTEND:20260917T190000Z DTSTAMP:20260901T060553Z UID:10006941-1789650000-1789653600@www.fppld.org CATEGORIES:community,literary DESCRIPTION:Registration is not required\, but encouraged. \nBring in a bo ok you’re currently reading or one of your favorites to share with every one. Give a little book talk or just share some of your favorite quotes/pa rts\, we’re here to learn more about books of all genres! \n\n Notice: J avaScript is required for this content. LAST-MODIFIED:20260901T060553Z LOCATION:Saeli Community Room\, 10311 Grand Ave\, Franklin Park\, IL\, 601 31\, United States URL:https://www.fppld.org/event/byobook-club3/2026-09-17/?utm_source=caldi scovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Franklin Park Public Library X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.fppld.org/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:C. Russell Price at New/Next Writers Showcase DTSTART:20260917T180000Z DTEND:20260917T200000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T045914Z UID:11009-1789668000-1789675200@nupress.northwestern.edu CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:From the organizer’s website:  \n\nCelebrate a next generat ion of writers with us who’ve recently come out with new books.\n\n\nThi s showcase aims to highlight local writers and their new/upcoming work. Jo in us for a community reading featuring local Chicago writers: Billy Tuggl e\, C. Russell Price\, Kathleen Rooney\, Shivani Gupta LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T045914Z LOCATION:Beat Kitchen\, 2100 W Belmont Ave\, Chicago\, IL\, 60618\, United States URL:https://nupress.northwestern.edu/event/c-russell-price-at-new-next-wri ters-showcase/?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago -il X-SOURCE-NAME:Northwestern University Press X-SOURCE-URL:https://nupress.northwestern.edu/event/indigenous-peoples-day -poetry-reading-open-mic END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Teen Reading Power Hour • Hora de Lectura para Adolescentes DTSTART:20260917T210000Z DTEND:20260917T220000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T055739Z UID:30271-1789660800-1789664400@highwoodlibrary.org CATEGORIES:community,literary DESCRIPTION:Once a week\, YA staff powers down the computers for an hour a nd challenges teens to read. \nFor every 2 hours read in the library\, tee ns will be awarded a special prize! \n• • • \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUna ve z por semana\, el personal de YA apaga las computadoras durante una hora y reta a los adolescentes a leer. \nPor cada 2 horas de lectura en la bibli oteca\, los adolescentes recibirán un premio especial. LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T055739Z LOCATION:Highwood Library & Community Center\, 102 Highwood Avenue\, Highw ood\, IL\, 60040\, United States URL:https://highwoodlibrary.org/events/teen-reading-power-hour-hora-de-lec tura-para-adolescentes-7/2026-09-17?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics &utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Highwood Library X-SOURCE-URL:https://highwoodlibrary.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Teen Book Club DTSTART:20260917T220000Z DTEND:20260917T230000Z DTSTAMP:20260901T060553Z UID:10006910-1789664400-1789668000@www.fppld.org CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Open to Grades 6-12 | Registration is required \nDo you love t o read but have no one to talk to about your books? Do you need book recom mendations? Come to Teen Book Club! \nFor September we will be reading Cr umbs by Danie Stirling. Copies are available for pick-up at the Patron Ser vices (Circulation) desk or you can read it for free on Webtoon. \n \nFall ing in love just got sweeter in this charming\, romantic YA graphic novel from WEBTOON\, the #1 digital comic platform. Ray\, a young seer strugglin g with her powers\, discovers first love and friendship in her town’s ma gic bakery. \nIn a very special town\, there’s an even more unusual bake ry with a selection of baked treats hand-crafted to help your dreams come true. For Ray\, a quiet young woman with special powers of her own\, the o rder is always the same: a hot tea with a delicious side of romance. \nWhe n Ray meets Laurie\, the kind barista who aspires to be a professional mus ician\, she gets a real taste of love for the first time. But even with a spark of magic\, romance isn’t so simple. Both Ray and Laurie are chasin g their own dreams and even when Ray starts to see the future\, she can’ t predict her fate with Laurie. \n  \n\n Notice: JavaScript is required f or this content. LAST-MODIFIED:20260901T060553Z LOCATION:Small Meeting Room\, 10311 Grand Ave\, Franklin Park\, IL\, 60131 \, United States URL:https://www.fppld.org/event/teen-book-club-3/?utm_source=caldiscovery& utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Franklin Park Public Library X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.fppld.org/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Short Story Intergenerational Discussions DTSTART:20260917T220000Z DTEND:20260917T230000Z DTSTAMP:20260901T182524Z UID:10003288-1789664400-1789668000@thevillagechicago.org CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Members & guests–free. To RSVP\, please scroll down. The day before each discussion\, registered attendees will receive a confirmation email with a link to join via Zoom. \nRSVP to Join! This is an ongoing di scussion group. After you register\, you will receive weekly emails  with Zoom details and a link to that week’s story. While the group meets wee kly\, members and guests are welcome to drop in for one or all discussions . \nThis week the group is reading: \nThe diamond maker – HG Wells\nhttp s://americanliterature.com/author/hg-wells/short-story/the-diamond-maker\n Audio: https://youtu.be/Ti2iuOPQvUg?si=RyY4ekGFUILI8tZE LAST-MODIFIED:20260901T182524Z URL:https://thevillagechicago.org/calender-events/short-story-intergenerat ional-discussions-100/?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign =chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:The Village Chicago X-SOURCE-URL:https://thevillagechicago.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:New/Next Writers Showcase DTSTART:20260917T230000Z DTEND:20260918T010000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T045857Z UID:15329-1789668000-1789675200@guildcomplex.org CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Celebrate a next generation of writers with us who’ve recent ly come out with new books.\n\n\nThis showcase aims to highlight local wri ters and their new/upcoming work. Join us for a community reading featurin g local Chicago writers: Billy Tuggle C. Russell Price Kathleen Rooney Shi vani Gupta LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T045857Z LOCATION:Beat Kitchen\, 2100 W Belmont Ave\, Chicago\, IL\, 60618\, United States URL:https://guildcomplex.org/event/new-next-writers-showcase-2/?utm_source =caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Guild Literary Complex X-SOURCE-URL:https://guildcomplex.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Fab Fiction Book Discussion DTSTART:20260917T233000Z DTEND:20260918T003000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T060851Z UID:10003198-1789669800-1789673400@lgba.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Discuss a diverse mix of popular fiction featuring a variety o f authors. New members are welcome. \nRoom: Board RoomNote: Registration r equired through the Library. LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T060851Z LOCATION:La Grange Public Library\, 10 W. Cossitt\, La Grange\, IL\, 60525 \, United States URL:https://lgba.com/event/fab-fiction-book-discussion/?utm_source=caldisc overy&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:La Grange Business Association X-SOURCE-URL:https://lgba.com/craft-fair END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Cookbook Club DTSTART:20260918T000000Z DTEND:20260918T013000Z DTSTAMP:20260901T061426Z UID:10021531-1789671600-1789677000@www.northlakelibrary.org CATEGORIES:literary LAST-MODIFIED:20260901T061426Z LOCATION:Meeting Room – 2nd Floor\, 231 N Wolf Road\, Northlake\, IL\, 6 0164\, United States URL:https://www.northlakelibrary.org/event/cookbook-club-23/?utm_source=ca ldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Northlake Public Library District X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.northlakelibrary.org/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:This Is About Running. This Is Not About Running — Coach Bennett Book Tour DTSTART:20260918T050000Z DTEND:20260918T060000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T062357Z UID:event-33254@www.townvue.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Join us a few doors down from our Fleet Feet Old Town store to celebrate the launch of Coach Bennett's new book.\n\nPrice: $39.19\n\nMor e info: https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/this-is-about-running-this- is-not-about-running-coach-bennett-book-tour-33254 LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T062357Z LOCATION:1714 North Wells Street\, Chicago\, IL 60614 URL:https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/this-is-about-running-this-is-n ot-about-running-coach-bennett-book-tour-33254?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm _medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:TownVue — Events in Chicago\, IL X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.townvue.com/in/chicago-il/events/education-worksh ops END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:A Spell of Heart & Havoc by Kristen Vale DTSTART:20260918T050000Z DTEND:20260918T060000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T062357Z UID:event-33227@www.townvue.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:The thief\, the noblewoman\, and the secrets they hide.\n\nPri ce: Free\n\nMore info: https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/a-spell-of-h eart-havoc-by-kristen-vale-33227 LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T062357Z LOCATION:5233 North Clark Street\, Chicago\, IL 60640 URL:https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/a-spell-of-heart-havoc-by-krist en-vale-33227?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago- il X-SOURCE-NAME:TownVue — Events in Chicago\, IL X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.townvue.com/in/chicago-il/events/education-worksh ops END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Rise Anyway Book Launch DTSTART:20260918T180000Z DTEND:20260918T193000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T060851Z UID:10003200-1789736400-1789741800@lgba.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Join author Natalie D. James for a conversation\, Q&A and sign ing celebrating the launch of Rise Anyway. LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T060851Z LOCATION:Olivaceto URL:https://lgba.com/event/rise-anyway-book-launch/?utm_source=caldiscover y&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:La Grange Business Association X-SOURCE-URL:https://lgba.com/craft-fair END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Ankur Thakkar in Conversation with Rebecca Makkai at CityLit Books DTSTART:20260918T183000Z DTEND:20260918T200000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T045914Z UID:10887-1789756200-1789761600@nupress.northwestern.edu CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:From the organizer’s website: \nJoin author Ankur Thakkar to celebrate his new book\, Blow Yourself Up! The evening will include an a uthor chat with Rebecca Makkai\, audience Q&A\, and book signing. \nFree RSVP is requested (see the event page at CityLit Books\, linked below) \n \nA story of first love across cities spanning the decade that transformed the internet In the halls of an elite East Coast high school\, Arjun and Payal fall in love as the world begins to tilt toward the digital. \nOver the next eight years\, their trajectories diverge as sharply as the fract ured internet itself. Payal ascends to the dizzying\, dopamine-fueled heig hts of New York’s influencer economy\, finding fame on Boost\, a looping video app that is as rewarding as it is demanding. Meanwhile\, in a caver nous office in Chicago\, Arjun\, a musician whose dreams have quieted\, no w cleans up the same platform’s debris\, moderating the internet’s dar kest videos. When a brutal act of political violence against a beloved mus ician goes viral\, this rip in reality forces the pair to confront the mot ivations of the platforms they inhabit. A sharp exploration of creative am bition and the multifarious nature of identity\, this is a story of love i n the time of infinite scroll and a look at what we sacrifice to be seen. \n \nAnkur Thakkar is a multimedia artist and the author of the novel Blow Yourself Up. He was a Tennessee Williams Scholar at the Sewanee Writers ’ Conference in 2025 and his writing has appeared in Guernica\, PANK\, a nd TriQuarterly. Medium selected his piece\, “Swipe\,” as one of the b est personal essays about the internet. His artwork has been shown at the Palais de Tokyo and La Friche la Belle de Mai. He chose MFA\, then NYC\, a nd lives in Brooklyn. \n \nRebecca Makkai is the author of the New York Ti mes bestselling I Have Some Questions For You as well as four other works of fiction. Her last novel\, The Great Believers\, one of the New York Tim es’ Best Books of the 21st Century\, was a finalist for both the 2019 Pu litzer Prize and the 2018 National Book Award\, and was the winner of the ALA Carnegie Medal and the LA Times Book Prize among other honors. A 2022 Guggenheim Fellow\, Rebecca teaches graduate fiction writing at Middlebury College\, Northwestern University\, and the Bennington Writing Seminars\, and she is Artistic Director of StoryStudio Chicago. LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T045914Z LOCATION:CityLit Books\, 2523 N Kedzie Blvd\, Chicago\, IL\, 60647\, Unite d States URL:https://nupress.northwestern.edu/event/ankur-thakkar-in-conversation-w ith-rebecca-makkai-at-citylit-books/?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ic s&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Northwestern University Press X-SOURCE-URL:https://nupress.northwestern.edu/event/indigenous-peoples-day -poetry-reading-open-mic END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Listening Hours with Marvin Tate: 4th Shift Album & Book Release DTSTART:20260919T050000Z DTEND:20260919T060000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T062357Z UID:event-24946@www.townvue.com CATEGORIES:literary,music DESCRIPTION:We are pleased to welcome Marvin Tate for an album listening a nd book release for his newest project\, 4th Shift.\n\nPrice: Free\n\nMore info: https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/listening-hours-with-marvin- tate-4th-shift-album-book-release-24946 LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T062357Z LOCATION:7200 South Dorchester Avenue\, Chicago\, IL 60619 URL:https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/listening-hours-with-marvin-tat e-4th-shift-album-book-release-24946?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ic s&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:TownVue — Events in Chicago\, IL X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.townvue.com/in/chicago-il/events/education-worksh ops END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Sat.\, Sept. 19 from 10a-12p: Writers’ Group SIG (Special Intere st Group) DTSTART:20260919T150000Z DTEND:20260919T170000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T055811Z UID:7222-1789812000-1789819200@ssghs.org CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Sat.\, Sept. 19 from 10a-12p: Writers’ Group SIG. Join Carol e to learn ways to write and share your story. LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T055811Z LOCATION:SSGHS Library\, 3000 W 170th Place\, Hazel Crest\, IL\, 60429 URL:https://ssghs.org/event/sat-sept-19-from-10a-12p-writers-group-sig-spe cial-interest-group/?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=c hicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:South Suburban Genealogical & Historical Society X-SOURCE-URL:https://ssghs.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Book Bedazzling (One Book\, One Community Program) DTSTART:20260919T170000Z DTEND:20260919T200000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T060851Z UID:10003205-1789819200-1789830000@lgba.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Celebrate books by bedazzling the title or a prominent cover f eature of The Giver or another favorite book. Finished books will be displ ayed through November. \nRoom: DierkesNote: Registration required through the Library. LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T060851Z LOCATION:La Grange Public Library\, 10 W. Cossitt\, La Grange\, IL\, 60525 \, United States URL:https://lgba.com/event/book-bedazzling-one-book-one-community-program/ ?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:La Grange Business Association X-SOURCE-URL:https://lgba.com/craft-fair END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Comic Book Club DTSTART:20260919T190000Z DTEND:20260919T200000Z DTSTAMP:20260905T061702Z UID:10007057-1789826400-1789830000@www.fppld.org CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:K-5th grade — Registration is not required. \n  \nJoin us t o talk about your favorite comics and superheroes\, and even make your own ! We’ll have prepared tips for making all types of comics\, and art supp lies will be provided. \n  \n\n Notice: JavaScript is required for this c ontent. LAST-MODIFIED:20260905T061702Z LOCATION:Saeli Community Room\, 10311 Grand Ave\, Franklin Park\, IL\, 601 31\, United States URL:https://www.fppld.org/event/comic-book-club-3/2026-09-19/?utm_source=c aldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Franklin Park Public Library X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.fppld.org/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:America: Songs and Stories of Protest and Freedom DTSTART:20260919T200000Z DTEND:20260919T213000Z DTSTAMP:20260913T060950Z UID:10004178-1789830000-1789835400@chicagosocialbutterflies.com CATEGORIES:literary,music DESCRIPTION:2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States’ Decla ration of Independence. America: Songs and Stories of Protest and Freedom is a multi-genre concert of spoken word and music. It’s written and narr ated by award-winning journalist\, Cheryl Corley\, and features a stellar band lead by singer/songwriter Lucy Smith. This performance encompasses th e rage\, hope\, resilience and history that shaped the country over its ma ny years\; from Thomas Paine’s 18th century “Liberty Tree” to Beyonc e’s 21st century “Freedom.” \nA FREE AND ALL AGES EVENT \nCheryl Cor ley\, narrator\nLucy Smith Quintet\nLucy\, vocals\nJon Deitemyer\, drums\n Carmani Edwards\, bass\nWilliam Kurk\, keys\nGreg Ward\, alto sax \nA Nigh t Out in the Parks (NOITP) program \nBring your chairs and snacks for a gr eat Night Out in the Park! \nhttps://lucysmithjazz.com/ LAST-MODIFIED:20260913T060950Z LOCATION:Washington Park (in front of DuSable History Museum)\, 740 56th Place\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637\, United States URL:https://chicagosocialbutterflies.com/wp-events/america-songs-and-stori es-of-protest-and-freedom-4/?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_ca mpaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Chicago Social Butterflies X-SOURCE-URL:https://chicagosocialbutterflies.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:The Great Big Book Swap DTSTART:20260920T050000Z DTEND:20260920T060000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T062357Z UID:event-25286@www.townvue.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Get ready to turn the page on your next great read at The Grea t Big Book Swap at the American Writers Museum!\n\nMore info: https://www. townvue.com/Events/Details/the-great-big-book-swap-25286 LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T062357Z LOCATION:180 N. Michigan Avenue\, 2nd Floor\, Chicago\, IL 60601 URL:https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/the-great-big-book-swap-25286?u tm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:TownVue — Events in Chicago\, IL X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.townvue.com/in/chicago-il/events/education-worksh ops END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Book Club Fair & Film Screening: Cake DTSTART:20260920T050000Z DTEND:20260920T060000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T062357Z UID:event-33211@www.townvue.com CATEGORIES:film,literary DESCRIPTION:Meet Chicago’s book clubs\, spark new connections\, and enjo y "Cake\," an award-winning local short film celebrating love and resilien ce.\n\nMore info: https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/book-club-fair-fi lm-screening-cake-33211 LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T062357Z LOCATION:1400 West 46th Street\, Chicago\, IL 60609 URL:https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/book-club-fair-film-screening-c ake-33211?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:TownVue — Events in Chicago\, IL X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.townvue.com/in/chicago-il/events/education-worksh ops END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:September Free Day at the American Writers Museum DTSTART:20260920T050000Z DTEND:20260920T060000Z DTSTAMP:20260917T060740Z UID:event-26394@www.townvue.com CATEGORIES:arts,free,literary DESCRIPTION:Come enjoy a free day at the American Writers Museum!\n\nPrice : Free\n\nMore info: https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/september-free -day-at-the-american-writers-museum-26394 LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T060740Z LOCATION:180 N. Michigan Avenue\, 2nd Floor\, Chicago\, IL 60601 URL:https://www.townvue.com/Events/Details/september-free-day-at-the-ameri can-writers-museum-26394?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campai gn=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:TownVue — Events in Chicago\, IL X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.townvue.com/in/chicago-il/events/education-worksh ops END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:True Crime Brew Time DTSTART:20260921T230000Z DTEND:20260922T000000Z DTSTAMP:20260908T061738Z UID:10007179-1790013600-1790017200@www.fppld.org CATEGORIES:drink,literary DESCRIPTION:A book club for those who have a morbid curiosity for macabre nonfiction including book topics such as murder\, cults\, kidnappings\, & more.\n\nBrewed tea & snacks will be provided during discussions.\n\nMeeti ngs every 3rd Monday in FPPL’s Local History Room from 6PM to 7PM. Books will be decided by the group each month.\n\nThe book for September 19th i s London Falling: A Mysterious Death in a Gilded City and a Family’s Se arch for Truth by Patrick Radden Keefe. Pick up your copy at the Patron S ervices Desk starting Monday\, !\n\n\n Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T061738Z LOCATION:Local History Room\, 10311 Grand Ave\, Franklin Park\, IL\, 60131 \, United States URL:https://www.fppld.org/event/true-crime-brew-time-6/2026-09-21/?utm_sou rce=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Franklin Park Public Library X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.fppld.org/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Out North Reads: Box Hill — Kink\, Community & Queer History DTSTART:20260922T000000Z DTEND:20260922T013000Z DTSTAMP:20260916T181141Z UID:10005236-1790017200-1790022600@chicagosocialbutterflies.com CATEGORIES:community,literary DESCRIPTION:Join Out North Reads for a discussion of Box Hill—exploring leather culture\, identity\, desire\, and queer community. 21+ welcome. \n Set against the backdrop of Britain’s leather scene in the 1970s and 198 0s\, Box Hill explores themes of desire\, power exchange\, self-discovery\ , identity\, and belonging through the eyes of a young man navigating a tr ansformative relationship. The novel offers a unique lens into queer histo ry and culture while raising timeless questions about connection\, autonom y\, and authenticity. \nWhether you’re part of the leather community\, i nterested in LGBTQIA+ literature\, or simply looking to connect with other s through meaningful discussion\, you’ll find a welcoming and judgment-f ree space at Out North Reads. \nNo formal literary background is required —just bring your thoughts\, curiosity\, and an open mind. LAST-MODIFIED:20260916T181141Z LOCATION:Hive Center for the Book Arts\, 840 Custer AVe.\, Evanston\, IL\, 60202\, United States URL:https://chicagosocialbutterflies.com/wp-events/out-north-reads-box-hil l-kink-community-queer-history/?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm _campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Chicago Social Butterflies X-SOURCE-URL:https://chicagosocialbutterflies.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Braves Voices: Latine Heritage Month Author Visit DTSTART:20260922T170000Z DTEND:20260922T190000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T053922Z UID:tag:localist.com\,2008:EventInstance_53610970729320 CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Come celebrate Latine Heritage Month with us! As part of our B rave Voices author series\, Reyna Grande author of The Distance Between Us : A Memoir\, will be joining us to share more about her book and her story with the Oakton community. LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T053922Z LOCATION:Des Plaines Campus\, 1530 URL:https://events.oakton.edu/event/braves-voices-latinx-heritage-month-au thor-visit?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Oakton College Calendar X-SOURCE-URL:https://events.oakton.edu END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Let’s Talk About "The Odyssey"! DTSTART:20260922T203000Z DTEND:20260922T220000Z DTSTAMP:20260901T002631Z UID:14939@live.today.uic.edu CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:We’re bringing the lively debate about "The Odyssey" — the book and Nolan’s film adaptation — to campus. A panel\, including sch olars of race in the ancient Mediterranean\, Greek myth in modern popular culture\, Renaissance narrative and Nolan’s filmography\, will open with a discussion of the film’s choices and its impact on modern popular cul ture. Come join the conversation.\n\nFeaturing:\nNajee Olya\, Classical St udies\, College of William and Mary (and UIC alumnus!)\nNick Davis\, Engli sh\, Northwestern University\nKrishni Burns\, Classics and Mediterranean S tudies\, UIC\nRaphael Magarik\, English\, UIC\n\nCo-sponsored by the UIC I nstitute for the Humanities\, Classics and Mediterranean Studies and Movin g Image Arts.\n\nContact huminst@uic.edu for accessibility requests. LAST-MODIFIED:20260901T002631Z LOCATION:UIC Institute for the Humanities\, 1007 W. Harrison\, Suite 153\, Chicago\, IL\, 60607\, United States URL:https://live.today.uic.edu/events/lets-talk-about-the-odyssey/?utm_sou rce=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Events X-SOURCE-URL:https://live.today.uic.edu/events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Cook the Book Cookbook Book Club DTSTART:20260923T000000Z DTEND:20260923T013000Z DTSTAMP:20260910T062239Z UID:10007128-1790103600-1790109000@www.fppld.org CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:If you’ve ever wished that book clubs focused less on the bo ok and more on the food\, this is the club for you! Every month\, each mem ber will pick a recipe from a previously selected book to prepare and brin g in to the book club. The resulting potluck is the perfect opportunity to discuss the cookbook with others and try fun foods! \nJuly 28th: An Invit ation to Indian Cooking by Madhur Jaffrey \nAugust 25: Smitten Kitchen Eve ry Day by Deb Perelman \nSeptember 29: Chicano Eats by Esteban Castillo \n \n Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T062239Z LOCATION:Saeli Community Room\, 10311 Grand Ave\, Franklin Park\, IL\, 601 31\, United States URL:https://www.fppld.org/event/cook-the-book-cookbook-book-club-2-2/?utm_ source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Franklin Park Public Library X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.fppld.org/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Sinai Tables: Seniors Reading Short Subjects DTSTART:20260923T170000Z DTEND:20260923T180000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T055844Z UID:10000840-1790164800-1790168400@chicagosinai.org CATEGORIES:community,literary DESCRIPTION:This table is designed for older adults who like to read and d iscuss a range of topics\, including essays\, short stories\, opinion piec es and occasionally books\, one chapter at a time. \nReserve Your Seat at a Table Here: https://chicagosinaicongregation.shulcloud.com/form/Sinai%20 Tables LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T055844Z URL:https://chicagosinai.org/event/sinai-tables-seniors-reading-short-subj ects-2/2026-09-23?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chic ago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Chicago Sinai Congregation X-SOURCE-URL:https://chicagosinai.org/join-temple-chicago END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Author Talk: “Migrant Heart” by Reyna Grande (ONLINE) DTSTART:20260923T230000Z DTEND:20260924T000000Z DTSTAMP:20260815T001927Z UID:10011833-1790186400-1790190000@www.chicagoculturalalliance.org CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illuminating conversation streamed live from th e AWM with writers Reyna Grande and Erika L. Sánchez. The two bestsell ing authors sit down to discuss Grande’s new book Migrant Heart: Essays About Things I Can’t Forget\, an ambitious memoir in essays that illumi nates the hidden cost of the American Dream and the complex journey of hea ling that follows survival. \nThis is the livestream of an in person progr am at the American Writers Museum. When you register for this event\, you will receive access to the livestream link. If you would like to attend t he program in person at the AWM\, get your tickets here. \nMore about Mig rant Heart: \nWhat is the true power of stories? Can they heal the jagged edges of a traumatic childhood? Is the cost of telling the story worth the price of the cure? \nReyna Grande has spent her career capturing the raw reality of life across borders. In this intricate and deeply intimate memo ir-in-essays\, the author of the landmark memoirs The Distance Between Us  and A Dream Called Home again turns her gaze inward to explore the sca rs left by migration and the ongoing work of stitching herself back togeth er. \nWith her signature blend of sophistication and raw honesty\, Grande interrogates how living between two nations\, two languages\, and two iden tities has shaped the woman\, mother\, and writer she has become. Moving f rom the legacy of violence in her hometown of Iguala\, Mexico\, to a bitte rsweet family vacation in Europe spent reconciling her own impoverished pa st with her children’s world of abundance\, she uncovers startling truth s about the nature of survival. \nWhether being racially profiled in the A rizona borderlands or finding unexpected wisdom from the slugs in her gard en\, Grande unflinchingly asks: How do we bridge the gap between who we we re and who we have become? How do we turn pain into power? When memory thr eatens to define us\, how can we use story to heal while still honoring ou r boundaries? \nMigrant Heart is a powerful testament to Grande’s role as a storyteller and cultural witness. It expands our understanding of lif e in the United States and the complex people who cross and live within it s borders. It is an essential read for the seekers\, the dreamers\, and an yone who believes in the enduring\, transformative power of finding one’ s voice. \n\n\n\n\nPraise for Migrant Heart:\n\n\n\n“Migrant Heart is the exact book I needed during this tumultuous time. These essays should b e taught across the country. Reyna’s stories of surviving and thriving a s a Brown woman in the United States are seamlessly told through her sharp \, vibrant prose. This is a book I will return to again and again.” — Erika L. Sánchez\, New York Times bestselling author of I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter and Crying in the Bathroom \n“With heart and verve\, and her own particular candor\, so warm like a sun\, Reyna Grande writes about writing\, memory\, the Ayotzinapa 43\, the cruelties of the b order\, menopause\, slug sex\, and queen bees. I love Reyna’s way of see ing the world. These essays are heart-big.” —Ingrid Rojas Contreras\, Pulitzer Prize finalist and author of The Man Who Could Move Clouds \n “Migrant Heart is deep\, gorgeous\, and full of unexpected chambers tha t will by turns unsettle you\, infuriate you\, comfort you\, and\, if you let them\, heal you. And while much darkness lies in many of these essays —of human nature\, of life\, of our nation—ultimately\, they are illum inated with love.” —Xóchitl González\, Pulitzer Prize finalist and  New York Times bestselling author of Olga Dies Dreaming \n\n\n\nREYNA GRANDE is an award-winning author whose work powerfully illuminates the c omplexities of immigration\, family separation\, and the pursuit of the Am erican Dream. Born in Mexico\, Grande embarked on a perilous journey to th e U.S. at age nine to reunite with her parents—a defining experience tha t fuels her writing. Breaking generational barriers\, she became the first in her family to graduate from college\, earning a BA from UC Santa Cruz and an MFA from Antioch University.\n\n\n\nHer diverse body of work includ es her celebrated memoirs\, The Distance Between Us and A Dream Called Home\, and the novels Across a Hundred Mountains\, Dancing with Butterfl ies\, and the historical epic A Ballad of Love and Glory. She amplifies u ndocumented voices as co-editor of Somewhere We Are Human: Authentic Voic es on Immigration\, Survival\, and New Beginnings. She has earned numerous accolades\, such as the American Book Award\, the Premio Aztlan Literary Award\, the Luis Leal Award\, and the Hummingbird Award in Literary Arts. Her most recent book\, Migrant Heart: Essays About Things I Can’t Forge t\, was published in English and Spanish in May 2026. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nER IKA L. SÁNCHEZ is the daughter of Mexican immigrants. Her debut poetry c ollection\, Lessons on Expulsion\, was a finalist for the PEN America Ope n Book Award. Her debut young adult novel\, I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter was a #1 New York Times bestseller\, a National Book Awards f inalist\, and Tomás Rivera Award winner. Time has recognized it as one of the best YA novels of all time. It is now is being made into a MGM Orio n film directed by America Ferrera. She is an executive producer on the pr oject. I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter has also been adapted to t he theater at Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago\, Seattle Rep Theater\, Green way Court Theater in Los Angeles\, and Denver Center for the Performing Ar ts. Also\, her novel has been banned across the country due to its “cont roversial” themes. Most recently\, Sánchez published a critically accla imed memoir-in-essays titled Crying in the Bathroom with Viking Books. I t won the Chicago Review of Books Nonfiction award and has been optioned f or television. Sánchez was a Fulbright Scholar\, a Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent fellow from the Poetry Foundation\, a Princeton Arts Fellow\, a r ecipient of the 21st Century Award from the Chicago Public Library Foundat ion\, and a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship in poetry. Sánchez earned a BA from UIC and an MFA from the University of N ew Mexico. Her books have been translated and published in Korea\, Taiwan\ , the United Kingdom\, Brazil\, France\, Mexico\, Poland\, Turkey\, and It aly. She’s appeared on WGN\, PBS\, NPR\, Good Morning America\, Telemund o\, Univision\, and MSNBC. Erika holds an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Let ters from New School University. She lives in Chicago with her family. LAST-MODIFIED:20260815T001927Z LOCATION:American Writers Museum\, 180 N. Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, IL\, 6 0601\, United States URL:https://www.chicagoculturalalliance.org/event/author-talk-migrant-hear t-by-reyna-grande-online/?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campa ign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Chicago Cultural Alliance X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.chicagoculturalalliance.org/events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Author Talk: “Migrant Heart” by Reyna Grande (IN PERSON) DTSTART:20260923T230000Z DTEND:20260924T000000Z DTSTAMP:20260816T060234Z UID:10011832-1790186400-1790190000@www.chicagoculturalalliance.org CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illuminating conversation at the AWM with write rs Reyna Grande and Erika L. Sánchez. The two bestselling authors sit down to discuss Grande’s new book Migrant Heart: Essays About Things I Can’t Forget\, an ambitious memoir in essays that illuminates the hidden cost of the American Dream and the complex journey of healing that follow s survival. Books will be available for purchase and Grande will sign them following the program. \nThis is an in person program at the American Wri ters Museum. This program will also be livestreamed\, and you can registe r for the link to the online broadcast here. \n  \nMore about Migrant He art: \nWhat is the true power of stories? Can they heal the jagged edges o f a traumatic childhood? Is the cost of telling the story worth the price of the cure? \nReyna Grande has spent her career capturing the raw reality of life across borders. In this intricate and deeply intimate memoir-in-e ssays\, the author of the landmark memoirs The Distance Between Us and  A Dream Called Home again turns her gaze inward to explore the scars left by migration and the ongoing work of stitching herself back together. \nW ith her signature blend of sophistication and raw honesty\, Grande interro gates how living between two nations\, two languages\, and two identities has shaped the woman\, mother\, and writer she has become. Moving from the legacy of violence in her hometown of Iguala\, Mexico\, to a bittersweet family vacation in Europe spent reconciling her own impoverished past with her children’s world of abundance\, she uncovers startling truths about the nature of survival. \nWhether being racially profiled in the Arizona borderlands or finding unexpected wisdom from the slugs in her garden\, Gr ande unflinchingly asks: How do we bridge the gap between who we were and who we have become? How do we turn pain into power? When memory threatens to define us\, how can we use story to heal while still honoring our bound aries? \nMigrant Heart is a powerful testament to Grande’s role as a st oryteller and cultural witness. It expands our understanding of life in th e United States and the complex people who cross and live within its borde rs. It is an essential read for the seekers\, the dreamers\, and anyone wh o believes in the enduring\, transformative power of finding one’s voice . \nPraise for Migrant Heart: \n“Migrant Heart is the exact book I nee ded during this tumultuous time. These essays should be taught across the country. Reyna’s stories of surviving and thriving as a Brown woman in t he United States are seamlessly told through her sharp\, vibrant prose. Th is is a book I will return to again and again.” —Erika L. Sánchez\,  New York Times bestselling author of I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Dau ghter and Crying in the Bathroom \n“With heart and verve\, and her own particular candor\, so warm like a sun\, Reyna Grande writes about writin g\, memory\, the Ayotzinapa 43\, the cruelties of the border\, menopause\, slug sex\, and queen bees. I love Reyna’s way of seeing the world. Thes e essays are heart-big.” —Ingrid Rojas Contreras\, Pulitzer Prize fin alist and author of The Man Who Could Move Clouds \n“Migrant Heart is deep\, gorgeous\, and full of unexpected chambers that will by turns unset tle you\, infuriate you\, comfort you\, and\, if you let them\, heal you. And while much darkness lies in many of these essays—of human nature\, o f life\, of our nation—ultimately\, they are illuminated with love.”  —Xóchitl González\, Pulitzer Prize finalist and New York Times bests elling author of Olga Dies Dreaming \n \nREYNA GRANDE (left) is an award -winning author whose work powerfully illuminates the complexities of immi gration\, family separation\, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Born in Mexico\, Grande embarked on a perilous journey to the U.S. at age nine to reunite with her parents—a defining experience that fuels her writing . Breaking generational barriers\, she became the first in her family to g raduate from college\, earning a BA from UC Santa Cruz and an MFA from Ant ioch University. \nHer diverse body of work includes her celebrated memoir s\, The Distance Between Us and A Dream Called Home\, and the novels A cross a Hundred Mountains\, Dancing with Butterflies\, and the historical epic A Ballad of Love and Glory. She amplifies undocumented voices as co -editor of Somewhere We Are Human: Authentic Voices on Immigration\, Surv ival\, and New Beginnings. She has earned numerous accolades\, such as the American Book Award\, the Premio Aztlan Literary Award\, the Luis Leal Aw ard\, and the Hummingbird Award in Literary Arts. Her most recent book\,  Migrant Heart: Essays About Things I Can’t Forget\, was published in Eng lish and Spanish in May 2026. \nERIKA L. SÁNCHEZ (right) is the daughter of Mexican immigrants. Her debut poetry collection\, Lessons on Expulsio n\, was a finalist for the PEN America Open Book Award. Her debut young ad ult novel\, I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter was a #1 New York Ti mes bestseller\, a National Book Awards finalist\, and Tomás Rivera Awar d winner. Time has recognized it as one of the best YA novels of all time. It is now is being made into a MGM Orion film directed by America Ferrera . She is an executive producer on the project. I Am Not Your Perfect Mexi can Daughter has also been adapted to the theater at Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago\, Seattle Rep Theater\, Greenway Court Theater in Los Angeles\, and Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Also\, her novel has been bann ed across the country due to its “controversial” themes. Most recently \, Sánchez published a critically acclaimed memoir-in-essays titled Cryi ng in the Bathroom with Viking Books. It won the Chicago Review of Books Nonfiction award and has been optioned for television. Sánchez was a Fulb right Scholar\, a Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent fellow from the Poetry Fo undation\, a Princeton Arts Fellow\, a recipient of the 21st Century Award from the Chicago Public Library Foundation\, and a recipient of the Natio nal Endowment for the Arts Fellowship in poetry. Sánchez earned a BA from UIC and an MFA from the University of New Mexico. Her books have been tra nslated and published in Korea\, Taiwan\, the United Kingdom\, Brazil\, Fr ance\, Mexico\, Poland\, Turkey\, and Italy. She’s appeared on WGN\, PBS \, NPR\, Good Morning America\, Telemundo\, Univision\, and MSNBC. Erika h olds an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from New School University. S he lives in Chicago with her family. LAST-MODIFIED:20260816T060234Z LOCATION:American Writers Museum\, 180 N. Michigan Ave.\, Chicago\, IL\, 6 0601\, United States URL:https://www.chicagoculturalalliance.org/event/author-talk-migrant-hear t-by-reyna-grande-in-person/?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_ca mpaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Chicago Cultural Alliance X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.chicagoculturalalliance.org/events END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:La Grange Writers Group DTSTART:20260923T233000Z DTEND:20260924T013000Z DTSTAMP:20260917T063100Z UID:10003216-1790188200-1790195400@lgba.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:Share your writing\, receive feedback and give feedback to oth er local authors. Drop-ins are welcome. \nRoom: Dierkes LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T063100Z LOCATION:La Grange Public Library\, 10 W. Cossitt\, La Grange\, IL\, 60525 \, United States URL:https://lgba.com/event/la-grange-writers-group-2/?utm_source=caldiscov ery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:La Grange Business Association X-SOURCE-URL:https://lgba.com/craft-fair END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:YAL Book Club & Bible Study DTSTART:20260924T000000Z DTEND:20260924T013000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T063512Z UID:un15i3nj4d1te9qbk867hv7795@google.com CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:St. George YAL and Community Book Club & Bible Study\n\nJoin w ith Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/ckd-dtpw-rgt\nOr dial: (US) +1 63 1-619-8301 PIN: 244489366#\nMore phone numbers: https://tel.meet/ckd-dtpw- rgt?pin=6070823807971&hs=7\n\nLearn more about Meet at: https://support.go ogle.com/a/users/answer/9282720 LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T063512Z LOCATION:St George Greek Orthodox Church Parking Lot\, 2701N N Sheffield A ve\, Chicago\, IL 60614\, USA X-SOURCE-NAME:STG Public Website Calendar X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.stgeorgechicago.net/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT SUMMARY:Anti-Racism Book Club DTSTART:20260924T003000Z DTEND:20260924T020000Z DTSTAMP:20260915T060153Z UID:10016595-1790191800-1790197200@www.mishkanchicago.org CATEGORIES:literary DESCRIPTION:External change starts from within. Join a group of people doi ng the work of anti-racism by fostering personal growth and an awareness o f unconscious bias. Meets virtually every other week\, discussing anti-rac ist non fiction books\, novels\, short stories\, as well as viewing films\ , plays\, and tv shows. \nRegister LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T060153Z URL:https://www.mishkanchicago.org/event/anti-racism-book-club-2-5-2/2026- 09-23/?utm_source=caldiscovery&utm_medium=ics&utm_campaign=chicago-il X-SOURCE-NAME:Mishkan Chicago X-SOURCE-URL:https://www.mishkanchicago.org END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR