The literary scene in Portland is buzzing with a diverse lineup of events featuring acclaimed authors and their latest works, promising to inspire and engage book lovers throughout the month of August.
Starting off in the first week, Bold Coffee and Books will host Reba J. Parker on August 1 at 7 p.m. Parker, a sociology professor and community organizer, will read from her new book, “The Peace Ability Mindset.” The book seeks to redefine peace for the 21st century through her Peace Equation, which combines safety, well-being, and interconnectedness. Snacks and beverages will be provided at the event, which is free to attend.
On August 4, Annie Bloom’s Books welcomes Dr. Robert Macauley at 7 p.m. The board-certified hospice and palliative medicine pediatrician will share insights from his book, “Because I Knew You: How Some Remarkable Sick Kids Healed a Doctor’s Soul.” The book offers uplifting stories and reflections on palliative care, emphasizing that it is more about living than dying. Macauley will be joined by OPB health reporter Amelia Templeton for this inspiring reading.
Additionally, on August 5 at 7 p.m., Powell’s City of Books will host Ashley Yang-Thompson as she reads from her memoir, “Still Worm.” This thought-provoking work presents a blend of ephemera, diary entries, and philosophical fragments, focusing on cultural commentary during a time of transition. Yang-Thompson will be in conversation with Sarah Shay Mirk, author of “Guantanamo Voices.”
The second week of August brings another round of exciting events. On August 8, beginning at 6 p.m., Raymond will partake in a conversation about storytelling for screen and stage at Literary Arts. He will discuss crafting narratives alongside Mark Roberts, known for his screenwriting on popular television series such as “Mike and Molly” and “Two and a Half Men.” This conversation will be moderated by Marisa Cohen, connecting to the Portland Festival of Cinema, Animation & Technology occurring from August 6-10.
Later that evening, Tsunami Books will feature Willy Vlautin and Miriam Gershow at 7:30 p.m. Vlautin, an Oregon Book Award winner, will celebrate the paperback release of “The Horse,” a story exploring themes of suffering, redemption, and loneliness through impactful prose. Gershow, an Oregon Book Award finalist, will join Vlautin for a reading and signing event that promises to engage the audience.
As the third week arrives, the Writers Guild will host the 2025 Writer in Residence Reception on August 15 at 5:30 p.m. This event, taking place at the Astoria Visual Arts Gallery, will celebrate Marj Hogan, the 2025 writer in residence. Hogan, a passionate educator with a unique background, will discuss her writing retreat project focused on the impact of work on individuals and communities.
On August 16, Up Up Books will host an open mic night featuring Eric Tran as the guest reader at 5 p.m. During this event, Tran will read from his works, which include “Mouth, Sugar, and Smoke” and “The Gutter Spread Guide to Prayer.” Matthew Dickman, a Guggenheim fellow, will host the evening, giving participants a platform to share their own creations as well.
The fourth week of August features yet more literary activities. On August 25 at 4:30 p.m., Broadway Books will host a letter writing social led by Emma Swartz of Squeezebox Press. Attendees can participate by using provided materials or bringing their own stationery to create heartfelt letters. Open to everyone, this event fosters a sense of community among letter-writing enthusiasts.
Later that day, at 7 p.m. in Literary Arts Bookstore, Mariah Rigg will read from her story collection, “Extinction Capital of the World.” Growing up in Hawai’i, Rigg’s work intricately explores themes of community, family, and the delicate balance of our environment. The following reading at Annie Bloom’s Books will feature Daniela Naomi Molnar on the same evening, who will share from her book “Protocols: An Erasure”—a poignant examination of antisemitism through a Jewish perspective in a powerful dialogue with Rabbi Josh Rose.
On August 26 at 7 p.m., Powell’s City of Books will present Karleigh Frisbie Brogan in conversation with Chelsea Bieker as Brogan reads from her memoir, “Holding: A Memoir About Mothers, Drugs, and Other Comforts.” This deeply personal narrative reveals the complexities of mother-daughter relationships intertwined with experiences of addiction and resilience.
To wrap up the month, on August 28, Glenn Voelz will read from his book, “The Civilian Conservation Corps in Oregon: A Living Legacy” at Roundabout Books & Cafe at 6:30 p.m. Voelz’s work highlights the crucial contributions of the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, revealing both historical significance and personal connections.
Finally, the week will conclude with a poetry reading featuring Peg Edera and Melody Wilson on the same evening at Annie Bloom’s Books. Edera’s new collection, “Reclaiming the Nectar and the Hum” serves as a heartfelt tribute, while Wilson’s “Spineless: Memoir in Invertebrates” offers a unique perspective on life’s diverse experiences.
These upcoming events showcase an exciting blend of literary talents and address significant themes through a variety of genres, ensuring a vibrant and enriching experience for all attendees.
image source from：orartswatch
