Northwest Passages Book Club

National bestselling author of "The Music of Bees, " Eileen Garvin returns with a moving story of hope, healing, and unexpected friendship set amidst the wild natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. “Garvin evocatively renders the beauty of the mountain landscape, and she excels at depicting the fault lines in her characters' lives…Readers in the mood for a happy ending will be carried away.” —Publisher's WeeklyAmmi Midstokke leads the conversation, taped before a live studio audience on the roof top of the Steam Plant on May 2, 2024.

Acclaimed author Ed Humes appears at the Northwest Passages Book Club to talk about his latest work, "Total Garbage", with Spokesman-Review editor Rob Curley at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts theater at Gonzaga University on Thursday, April 18, 2024.

Author Simone Gorrindo wrote a memoir of her life as a military wife and talks with Northwest Passages Book Club coordinator Kristi Burns about how she dealt with the life of a military wife. Gorrindo appeared at the book club event in the Chronicle Building pavilion in Spokane, Washington Tuesday, April 17, 2024.

In her fourth novel, acclaimed Denfeld (The Butterfly Girl, 2019) draws on her experiences as a social justice investigator and foster mother to astutely portray neurodivergent characters in a transfixingly atmospheric, brilliantly plotted, heart-seizing drama of cruelty and trauma, cover-ups and murder, and the depthless mysteries of pain and love.” — BooklistIn conversation with Stephanie Oakes, April 2, 2024

High schoolers from the Inland Northwest celebrate their art submissions inspired by the prompt of "Black Joy" and discuss the significance of their pieces published in the Spokesman-Review with Black Lens Editor Natasha Hill at Gonzaga University.

Original Date: Jan 16 2024Explore the captivating world of "The Strange Beautiful" by Carla Crujido, where family lore intertwines with the intriguing stories of ten tenants spanning over a century. Drawing inspiration from real-life advertisements discovered in The Spokesman-Review, Crujido weaves tales that offer a unique glimpse into the lives of these diverse characters. Immerse yourself in a collection that transcends time, delving into the strange and beautiful moments that shape the fabric of each individual's existence. Join us on this literary journey through history, where the past comes alive in the hands of a talented storyteller.

Reunite with the iconic players of the 1999 Gonzaga Bulldogs basketball team in an exclusive Spokesman-Review Northwest Passages livestream!

Join us for replay of  Spokesman-Review Northwest Passages conversation with Ben Goldfarb, author of the New York Times bestseller "Crossings" from Sept. 21, 2023.In this engaging event, we'll delve into the world of animal migrations, conservation, and the challenges they face. In his compelling book, he examines our dependence on highways and roads as an environmental concern as well as a social one. "Crossings" explores the incredible journeys of wildlife as they traverse diverse landscapes. From salmon's epic migrations to the monarch butterflies' incredible feats, Goldfarb's book highlights the struggles and successes of these creatures in adapting to changing environments.During this live event, Ben Goldfarb will share insights into the obstacles these animals encounter and the innovative conservation efforts aimed at protecting them. He's a dedicated advocate for preserving ecosystems, making this conversation a valuable opportunity to discuss pressing environmental issues. In this special conversation, celebrate wildlife resilience and explore ways to foster coexistence with nature. Whether you're an environmental enthusiast or just curious about the natural world, this event promises an enriching experience.

Northwest Passages hosts a thought-provoking evening with Tom Mueller, the accomplished author of "How to Make a Killing: Blood, Death, and Dollars in American Medicine."In this enlightening event, you'll delve into the captivating microcosm of American healthcare through dialysis, as Mueller recounts the evolution of a system that has gone astray. A panel of guests will accompany Mueller, including Dr. Katherine Tuttle, kidney specialist, Chef Duane Sunwold and biology professor Andrew Storfer.At the end of the night, listen to a live Q&A discussion with the panelists and author.

Northwest Passages presents a powerful and insightful discussion on a subject that deserves our attention and empathy. In this engaging live event featuring author Tamara Leitner, delve into the profound themes explored in her book, "Don't Say A Thing: A Predator, a Pursuit, and the Women Who Perserved." This gripping narrative courageously tackles the sensitive issue of sexual assault and the incredible strength it takes to find one's voice.About the Author: Tamara Leitner, a remarkable author, pens her story with incredible vulnerability and candor. In "Don't Say A Thing," she explores the harrowing aftermath of sexual assault, demonstrating the resilience of survivors as they navigate a world that often silences their experiences. To learn more about Tamara and her work, visit her website: www.tamaraleitner.com. Connect with her on social media for updates and insights: Twitter – @TammyLeitnerNBC | Instagram – @tammy.leitnerAbout the Moderator: Mandi Price, a seasoned tv producer and advocate for survivors, will lead this critical discussion. Her empathetic approach and insightful questions will guide the conversation, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue. To learn more about Mandi Price and her work, connect with Mandi on Instagram and Twitter: @mandikay2

Prepare for an enriching literary journey with The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages as we present a live discussion on the critically acclaimed novel, "The Meadows," penned by the talented author, Stephanie Oakes."The Meadows" is a captivating blend of dystopia, suspense, and coming-of-age exploration aimed at LGBTQ+ youth. Oakes writes of her own experiences and influences for writing this novel, to bring light to queer people and spaces throughout history.Joining Stephanie in conversation is Alexis M. Smith.

Author Craig Johnson, writer of the extensive series of books featuring Sheriff Walt Longmire, stopped at the Northwest Passages Book Club Sept. 6, 2023 at the Bing Crosby Theater in Spokane, Washington and talked about his newest book, "The Longmire Defense", and about writing in general.

First-time author Eli Francovich, with interviewer Tyler Tjomsland, took the stage at the Bing Crosby Theater April 13 to talk about his new book "Return of Wolves" which tells the story of how wolves have been reintroduced to the wild and how ranchers and their herds are learning to live with them in Washington, Idaho and other parts of the Northwest.

New York Times #1 bestselling author Nic Stone took to the downtown Spokane theater stage Thursday night, sitting cross-legged with no shoes, to talk about mental health and the unfortunate stigma that comes with it. The talk was part of The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages book club series.Stone said part of the reason she wrote her latest book, “Chaos Theory,” was to destigmatize “brain health.” The novel chronicles a pair of high school seniors who struggle with mental health problems.“This was the most personal book I've ever written,” Stone said.

America's Favorite Librarian (and #1 Northwest Passages Fan) Nancy Pearl interviews prolific author Timothy Egan about his new book " A Fever in the Heartland" at the Northwest Passages Book Club Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center at Gonzaga University.

The Bing Crosby Theater was the place to be on March 15 as everyone showed up to celebrate the launch of Ammi Midstokke's collection of columns into a book published by Latah Creek entitled "All the Things." Fun was had by all!

Stephaine Courtney opens the event with a reading of her published book "Our Community." African American high school students in the Spokane area present their work for Spokane Black Voices, with discussion faciliatated by Kiantha Duncan and Mandi Price.

Prolific Author and Pulitzer Prize winner Edward Humes takes the stage at the Spokane Central Library with Gonzaga Law dean Jacob Rooksby to talk about the book " The Forever Witness" a true crime story of solving a cold case murder from the 1980s using genealogical DNA.

New York Times bestselling author, Jamie Ford in conversation with Carolyn Lamberson about his research and the writing process behind "The Many Daughters of Afong Moy."Dorothy Moy breaks her own heart for a living. As Washington's former poet laureate, that's how she describes channeling her dissociative episodes and mental health struggles into her art. But when her five-year-old daughter exhibits similar behavior and begins remembering things from the lives of their ancestors, Dorothy believes the past has truly come to haunt her. Fearing that her child is predestined to endure the same debilitating depression that has marked her own life, Dorothy seeks radical help.

Putsata Reang emigrated from Cambodia as an infant in her mother's arms. Her mother fought off the boat captain's efforts to toss her child overboard, and that connection began their intricate relationship. Reang was raised in rural Oregon and spent time writing for The Spokesman-Review before the New York Times, Politico and The Seattle Times and the San Jose Mercury News. Her memoir, “Ma and Me” explores the legacy of trauma and cultural identity, and how Reang navigated her complicated upbringing. NAACP President and Spokesman-Review columnist Kiantha Duncan will discuss the book and the associated issues with feeling “other.”

The Northwest Passages Book Club meets for a discussion with author Jesse Walter, interviewed by author Shawn Vestal, at the Bing Crosby Theater in Spokane, Washington. The interview was centered on Walter releasing a new collection of short stories, "Angel of Rome"

Eli Francovich was dispatched as correspondent to cover the war in Ukraine for The Spokesman-Review. With approximately 30,000 Ukrainian refugees calling Spokane home, what happens in Ukraine has a little more impact in the Pacific Northwest. Francovich talks about his experience and shares his behind the scenes photographs.

Author Mary Cronk Farrell has written books about women who many have not heard of until she wrote the book. One of those is French photojournalist Catherine LeRoy, who went to cover the Vietnam War as a 21-year-old. Farrell spoke to the Northwest Passage Book Club Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at the Montvale Event Center in Spokane, Washington.

Author Sasha LaPointe sits down with Emma Noyes to talk about her book, "Red Paint: The Ancestral Autobiography of a Coast Salish Punk", at a live session of The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages Book Club.An indigenous artist blends the aesthetics of punk rock with the traditional spiritual practices of the women in her lineage in this bold, contemporary journey to reclaim her heritage and unleash her power and voice while searching for a permanent home. 2020 Washington State Book Award Finalist Elissa Washuta wrote: “Red Paint is a miraculous book. Sasha LaPointe walks us through the sites of her evisceration while rebuilding a home within her body using sturdy materials: rose quartz, cedar bark, red clay, and the words of her ancestors. With each potent sentence, she shows us what access to power looks like. She shows us how to become whole.”

Author Victorya Rouse, a Ferris High School English teacher focused on new arrivals in America, collected the stories of her immigrant students into a book called "Finding Refuge." She speaks with author Shawn Vestal about the book at a Northwest Passages event in Spokane on Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2021.

YA author Sundee Frazier talks about her new book, "Mighty Inside" with Kiantha Duncan at the Tuesday, Oct. 19th edition of the Northwest Passages Book Club at the Montvale Event Center. The story is based on her own families' experience as the first Black family to move into Spokane's Empire Avenue neighborhood in the 1940s.

From bestselling and award-winning author Sara Pennypacker comes the long-awaited sequel to Pax; this is a gorgeously crafted, utterly compelling novel about chosen families and the healing power of love. And who better to talk about this book with than Chris Crutcher?!? Order your copy of "Pax, Journey Home" from Wishing Tree Books!

Beginning with the Aronia berry and ending with zucchini, local author and poet Kate Lebo's “The Book of Difficult Fruit: Arguments for the Tart, Tender, and Unruly” is an alphabetical collection of memoirs and recipes taken from Lebo's life.

Jennifer Longo visited virtually with the Northwest Passages Book Club to talk about her book "What I Carry," a novel about a teenage girl aging out of foster care. Molly Allen, co-founder of Safety Net, an organization that helps former foster kids, poses the questions.

Conversation about Maggie Shipstead’s new bestseller ,“Great Circle,” follows aviator Marian Graves through Prohibition-era Montana, the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, New Zealand, wartime London and beyond as she charts her own course through life and love. Nearly a century later, actress Hadley Baxter is cast as Graves in a biopic chronicling the events leading up to and following her disappearance over Antarctica.

From New York Times bestselling author of "Escape From Camp 14," a riveting and revealing account of one of the most persistent alternative facts in American history: the story of a missionary, a tribe, a massacre, and a myth that shaped the American West.

Author Eileen Garvin talks about her book "The Music of Bees" with Spokane writer Kris Dinnison on the Northwest Passages Livestream Tuesday, May 4, 2021.

Master Gardener Susan Mulvihill talks about her book "The Vegetable Garden Pest Handbook" with book club coordinator Kristi Burns on the Northwest Passages Book Club livestream.Support local bookstores, and get your copy of "The Vegetable Garden Pest Handbook" from Auntie's Bookstore!

Sabina Khan is the author of ZARA HOSSAIN IS HERE and THE LOVE & LIES OF RUKHSANA ALI in conversation with Mandy Manning.

The conversation with legendary author Paul Theroux that you just didn't want to end. There was nary a dull moment in this hourlong discussion with Spokesman-Review editor Rob Curley and topics ranged from his latest novel, "Under the Wave at Waimea" to his perspective on a lifetime of travel.

"Lilac Girls," the 1.5-million-copy bestselling novel by Martha Hall Kelly, introduced readers to Caroline Ferriday, an American philanthropist who helped young girls released from Ravensbruck concentration camp. Now, in "Sunflower Sisters," Kelly tells the story of her ancestor Georgeanna Woolsey, a Union nurse who joins the war effort during the Civil War, and how her calling leads her to cross paths with Jemma, a young enslaved girl who is sold off and conscripted into the army, and Ann-May Wilson, a southern plantation mistress whose husband enlists.

Author Adrienne Kisner joined a virtual gathering of the Northwest Passages Book Club to discuss her novel, “Six Angry Girls,” with Kristi Burns of the Spokesman-Review. Adulthood is overrated!

Sarah Gailey, author of “The Echo Wife,” joined Northwest Passages Book Club just hours after Deadline announced that Annapurna Productions had successfully optioned the book for film adaptation.Here’s the premise: “Martine is a genetically cloned replica made from Evelyn Caldwell’s award-winning research. She’s patient and gentle and obedient. She’s everything Evelyn swore she would never be. And she’s having an affair with Evelyn’s husband. Now, the (cheat) is dead, and both Caldwell wives have a mess to clean up. Good thing Evelyn Caldwell is used to getting her hands dirty.”

Tracy Dobmeier and Wendy Katzman wrote "Girls with Bright Futures" the fictional account of angst and stress of parents trying to get their children into the right universities and they talk about it with Kristi Burns of the Northwest Passages Book Club Thursday, Feb. 19, 2021 on a livestream broadcast. Books mentioned during the conversation include:Modern Romance by Aziz AnsariDaring Greatly by Brene BrownExcellent Sheep: The Miseducation of the American Elite and the Way to a Meaningful Life by William DeresiewiczShort and Tragic Life of Robert Pearce: A Brilliant Young Man Who Left Newark for the Ivy League by Jeff HobbsWhere You Go Is Not Who You'll Be by Frank BruniWrite Your Way In by Rachel Toor Books they are reading now:Caste by Isabel WilkersonThe Ex Talk by Rachel SolomonThe Kindest Lie by Nancy Johnson

Kim Johnson’s THIS IS MY AMERICA delves into racial injustice within the U.S. legal system . This powerful book holds a strong relatable message for our current social climate. The book discussion is lead by Kiantha Duncan, president of the Spokane chapter of the NAACP.

Award winning freelance journalist and podcaster Leah Sottile talks about her work writing about the anti-government and militia movements in the western states, which she has covered for many publications. She has also produced a podcast called "Bundyville" where she digs deeper into the topic. Shawn Vestal of The Spokesman-Review interviewed Sottile on the Northwest Passages Community Forum livestream Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021.

John Bryant, owner of No-Li Brewhouse in Spokane, talks with The Spokesman-Review Features Editor Don Chareunsy on Tuesday night about the Spokane beer scene, the recognition that Spokane beers, including No-Li beers, are getting across the country and how his company is faring under COVID-19 restrictions. Bryant is optimistic about the future of brewing and beer when COVID-19 restrictions end.

Sarah Elmeligi has been working with bears for nearly 20 years. After completing her Masters research examining the impacts of bear-viewing tourism on bear behaviour in the K’tzim-a-deen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary on the northern tip of the Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia, she completed her PhD studying grizzly bear habitat use of hiking trails in the Canadian Rocky Mountain national parks. Sarah is truly an interdisciplinary researcher and values incorporating the human dimension in her understanding of the bear–human relationship. Her book WHAT BEARS TEACH US brings her to Northwest Passages Book Club!

Author Edward Humes talks with Nick Deshais about his 2012 book "Garbology: Our Dirty Love Affair With Trash." Humes showed how recycling, at least as done by most people, barely makes a dent in the volume of trash produced and that people should strive for a less disposable lifestyle.

As the former Outdoors Editor of The Spokesman-Review, Rich Landers has spent more than four decades exploring the region, and the world, as he hiked, fished, skiied, hunted and explored. He has a handful of hiking and paddling books about the Northwest and recently published "Urban Trails: Spokane and Coeur d'Alene." He speaks with current Outdoors Editor Eli Francovich about the book on the Northwest Passages Book Club livestream originating in Spokane, Washington.

Spokane author Jess Walter releases his latest book, "The Cold Millions", in a live interview streamed from Auntie's Bookstore in Spokane, Washington Monday, Oct. 26, 2020. Spokesman-Review Senior Editor Carolyn Lamberson interviews Jess about his new book and about writing in general, fielding many questions from readers.

Author and historian Jim Kershner talks about his recently completed book, "The Sound of Spokane - The history of the Spokane Symphony" with Spokesman-Review writer Stephanie Hammett on the Northwest Passages Book Club livestream from Spokane, Washington. Principal trumpet Larry Jess joins the conversation to talk about his more than 50 years with the orchestra.Purchase the book: https://secure.foxtheaterspokane.org/344/346

A wildly original, cross-country novel that subverts a long tradition of family narratives and casts new light on the mythologies--national, individual, and collective--that drive and define us.VANESSA VESELKA is the author of the novel Zazen, which won the PEN/Robert W. Bingham Prize.

A wildly original, cross-country novel that subverts a long tradition of family narratives and casts new light on the mythologies--national, individual, and collective--that drive and define us.VANESSA VESELKA is the author of the novel Zazen, which won the PEN/Robert W. Bingham Prize.

The New Chardonnay tells the unbelievable story of pot’s astonishing rebranding, pulling back the curtain to show how a drug that was once the subject of “Just Say No” warnings managed to shed its unsavory image and land at the center of a booming and surprisingly upstanding industry.Heather Cabot is an author, award-winning journalist, keynote speaker and former ABC News correspondent and anchor. She specializes in narrative nonfiction storytelling highlighting inspiring tales of innovation, enterprise, grit and resilience.