Feldman's Events

From 10am-12pm on Sunday, October 20th, The Bike Kitchen with bicycle enthusiast and Shadetree mechanic Clayton Keller is back! Community members are invited on a first-come-first-serve basis to bring in their bicycles for some maintenance—to learn and to enjoy the wonders of bicycles, combined with coffee and doughnuts.

All donations received that day will contribute to our resident shade tree mechanic, Clayton Keller’s AIDS Life Cycle tour.

More on Eventbrite.

October 23, 2024: "The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" by Anne Fadiman 

A non-fiction book exploring the clash between Western medicine and Hmong culture. Verghese has praised this book for its insightful examination of cultural differences in healthcare, a theme that resonates with his own work. 

Part of: Vital Volumes: A Book Club Dedicated to the Works and Inspirations of Abraham Verghese

Reserve your seat for this event on Eventbrite.

October 22, 2024: 2- The High Priestess: "Divine Horsemen" by Maya Deren

Deren's groundbreaking work on Haitian Vodou explores the hidden mysteries and intuitive knowledge embodied by the High Priestess. The book delves into the realm of the subconscious and spiritual insight, mirroring the High Priestess's connection to the unseen world. Deren's immersion in Vodou rituals reflects the High Priestess's role as a bridge between the material and spiritual realms. The exploration of divine possession aligns with the High Priestess's ability to channel higher wisdom. Deren's dual role as observer and participant echoes the High Priestess's balance between objectivity and deep spiritual involvement.

As part of our "Fool’s Journey" book club, in addition to discussing Maya Deren’s “Divine Horsemen,” we will explore how the poetry of Emily Dickinson and Gwendolyn Brooks serves as bridges between the material and spiritual realms, embodying the High Priestess's role. Discover how their poetry channels higher wisdom and divine possession. We’ll also examine their balance between objectivity and deep spiritual involvement. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with the powerful words of two literary giants! 

Part of: The Fool’s Journey: A Literary Journey through the Tarot

Reserve your seat for this 10/22 event on Eventbrite.

Join us on Thursday 10/24 for our tenth monthly Stoic Book Club. This month, we will cover a third examination of Seneca's enduring "Letters from a Stoic."

The Epistulae Morales ad Lucilium, also known as the Moral Epistles and Letters from a Stoic, is a collection of 124 letters that Seneca the Younger wrote at the end of his life, during his retirement, after he had worked for the Emperor Nero for more than ten years.

One of the most remarkable and socially explosive developments of our time involves genetic testing. It opens avenues for disease identification, treatment, and prevention, but also poses social and personal hazards. Much may be gained, but it’s critical to recognize the consequences of uncovering one’s genetic future. For example, results of such testing may be devastating, may impact one’s relatives, and may raise potential issues of discrimination. 

Carol Peyser MD, a novelist and a physician, treated patients with a fatal illness, Huntington’s disease, when predictive testing first became available. She will interview two senior genetic counselors from Stanford. Kerry Kingham will cover general issues and genetic testing for cancer genes; Carly Siskind will cover testing for neurologic diseases like Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s where treatment options are limited.

Speakers:
Carol Peyser, MD

Kerry Kingham, MS, LCGC
Manager, Cancer Genetics
Stanford Healthcare Clinical Assistant Professor (Affiliated)
Stanford University

Carly Siskind, MS, CGC
Genetic Counselor IV
Clinical Associate Professor (Affiliate)[SHC]
Stanford University - Neurology

Reserve your spot for this talk on Eventbrite on 10/25 or on 12/06.

Born in the UK, singer Kate Lamont tried to hide her Indiana roots until the heartland inevitably laid the groundwork for her love of collaboration & songwriting. In 2020, Lamont released Konkrete Violet with Mani Draper and NOBL.

Lamont’s vision of music as a unifying force continues to fuel songs about truth, empowerment, spirituality, and vulnerability, with lyrics connecting the dots from personal experiences to the great social issues of our time.

Learn more at KateLamont.com.

Reserve your spot for this 11/1 show on Eventbrite.

November 5, 2024: "I Am Malala" by Malala Yousafzai

This memoir tells the story of Malala Yousafzai, the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate. It recounts her fight for girls' education in Pakistan, the attempt on her life by the Taliban, and her continued advocacy for peace and education. The book highlights the power of one individual to make a difference and the importance of education in promoting peace. Malala's story is both inspiring and thought-provoking, demonstrating the impact of peaceful resistance in the face of extremism.

Part of: Pathways to Peace: A Feldman's Books Literary Journey

Reserve your seat for this event on Eventbrite.

November 7, 2024 - "The Beginning of Infinity" by David Deutsch

The Beginning of Infinity is a wide-ranging exploration of human knowledge and its potential for unlimited progress. Deutsch argues that human explanations have a unique power to solve problems and that this ability is the key to our species' success. He covers topics from quantum physics to artificial intelligence, challenging readers to think critically about the nature of knowledge and progress.

The book presents an optimistic view of humanity's future, suggesting that our capacity for explanation and creativity is boundless.

This is one of Naval Ravikant's most frequently mentioned books, reflecting his interest in big ideas and the potential of human ingenuity.

Part of: Infinite Library: A Monthly Book Club Exploring Naval Ravikant's Favorite Books

Reserve your seat for this 11/07 event on Eventbrite.

 November 19 , 2024: 3- The Empress: "Jambalaya" by Luisah Teish

Teish's book celebrates the nurturing and creative aspects of the Empress through African-American and Yoruba spirituality. The author's exploration of feminine power and natural cycles aligns with the Empress's connection to fertility and abundance. Teish's personal stories and spiritual practices reflect the Empress's embodiment of sensuality and earthly pleasures.

The book's focus on ancestral wisdom mirrors the Empress's role as a maternal figure and keeper of traditions. Jambalaya's emphasis on personal growth and self-love resonates with the Empress's nurturing energy and ability to manifest desires.

Part of: The Fool’s Journey: A Literary Journey through the Tarot

Reserve your seat for this 11/19 event on Eventbrite.

November 21, 2024: "The Tennis Partner" by Abraham Verghese 

A deeply personal memoir about Verghese's friendship with a medical resident struggling with drug addiction. The book delves into themes of friendship, addiction, and the healing power of sports. Verghese has spoken about how writing this book helped him process his own grief and understand the complexities of addiction. 

Part of: Vital Volumes: A Book Club Dedicated to the Works and Inspirations of Abraham Verghese

Reserve your seat for this event on Eventbrite.

December 3, 2024: "Pedagogy of the Oppressed" by Paulo Freire

Freire's seminal work explores the relationship between oppressor and oppressed, proposing a new pedagogy that empowers marginalized groups. The book argues that education can be a tool for liberation and social change. It challenges traditional educational models and advocates for a more dialogic and participatory approach. While not explicitly about peace, Freire's ideas have profound implications for conflict resolution and social justice, making it a valuable read for those interested in building peaceful societies.

Part of: Pathways to Peace: A Feldman's Books Literary Journey

Reserve your seat for this event on Eventbrite.

Come join a guided morning meditation in the Zazen style at the bookstore every Thursday morning at 9am. After a brief introduction and setting, we will sit in silence for 20 minutes, and try to witness our thoughts passing by. There will be time for questions and sharing afterwards.

Dress comfortably, and bring a zafu or meditation cushion for sitting on the floor if you have one.

Select your date on Eventbrite.

“Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional."

— Haruki Murakami, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running

Join us every Monday morning at 7am for the Murakami Monday Running Club at Feldman’s Books. Led by seasoned runners Alex Anaya and Aidan Stone, we embark on 2, 4, or 6-mile runs as part of our training for various marathons in 2025.

This club fosters a supportive community where runners of all levels can connect.

Expect philosophical discussions during our workouts, reflecting our unique intellectual spirit. Each session lasts about an hour, followed by coffee, perhaps bagels, and a light hangout.

Feel like training for a marathon? Join us! Select your date on Eventbrite.

Join us at Feldman’s Books on Tuesday, October 18, from 4:00 to 5:30 PM for our third paper crane folding event. Our goal is to fold 1,000 cranes to send to Hiroshima as a gesture of peace, and we’ve already completed more than 500!

Gwen Minor will guide participants in the art of origami, emphasizing the crane's significance as a symbol of hope. All ages are welcome, and materials will be provided—let's come together to promote peace in our community!

"One of the main functions of art is to interpret war to those who have not experienced it."

—Leo Tolstoy

In association with San Francisco’s Litquake Festival, Feldman’s Books hosts this second evening at the intersection of literature, conflict, and peace. This collaborative event brings together renowned authors, scholars, and thought leaders to examine how literature documents, interprets, and addresses the complexities of war and peace.

Incorporating panel discussions, readings, and Socratic dialogue, participants will engage in meaningful discussions about how writers have used their craft to raise awareness and foster understanding of these critical issues.

Musical guests Effie Zilch and others will perform original, as well as classic 1960s, anti-war music, adding a powerful auditory dimension to the event.

Guests include:

• Tobias Wolff on the 30th anniversary of In Pharaoh’s Army: Memories of the Lost War

• Polina Barskova on poetry from the Siege of Leningrad & from Ukraine

• Ulia Gosart on the Ukrainian children war poetry

• Patrick Hunt on the effect of climate change on human conflict and ancient warfare

• Jessica Semaan Lebanese poet and psychotherapist specializing in trauma therapy

Musical Guests: Effie Zilch

ANN ANNIE is the stage name for Portland based composer Eli Goldberg. ann annie began as a simple side project for Eli to explore the world of modular synths and ambient music. As the project grew and took form, he slowly introduced various acoustic instruments into his compositions – most notably in their recent album ‘the wind’. This new sound combines aspects of classical orchestras with string and horn instruments, old country guitar twang and that original electronic modulation to form something wholly unique.

Their live show consists of a trio playing piano, saxophone, cello and modular synth performing dreamy, sometimes improvisational, chamber music mixed with atmospheric synth soundscapes.

Website : annannie.com

Local musicians Ian Santillano and Amos Heart will open the show at 6pm.

Reserve your seat on Eventbrite.

"When people share their stories and they share their hardships, all of us will listen. We’ll help carry the burden."

—Maxine Hong Kingston

In association with San Francisco’s Litquake Festival, Feldman’s Books is honored to host veteran and author Joe Lamb along with members of "Veterans of War, Veterans of Peace," a community led by acclaimed writer Maxine Hong Kingston. This event, the first part of Feldman’s symposium on the Literature of War and Peace, will feature readings from volume II of their collection of creative works by veterans. Through poignant storytelling, these brave individuals will reflect on the profound impact of war and explore literature's role in the healing process.

The evening will be further enriched by live musical performances from artists of Redtone Records, creating a multifaceted experience of art and reflection. Don't miss this unique opportunity to engage with powerful narratives, support our veterans, and witness the transformative power of creative expression.

Writers include: Maddie Aliah, Sean McLain Brown, Bob Golling, Geneffa Jahan, Joe Lamb, Martin Lesinski, Bonnie Bonner, and Zoe Sameth.

Reserve your seat for 10/11 on Eventbrite.

October 3, 2024 - "Skin in the Game" by Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Skin in the Game explores the concept of having a personal stake in decisions and actions, and how this principle applies to various aspects of life. Taleb argues that systems where decision-makers don't face the consequences of their choices are inherently fragile and prone to failure. He examines this idea across fields such as politics, economics, and ethics, offering insights into risk management and social justice.

The book challenges readers to reconsider their understanding of fairness, responsibility, and expertise in modern society. Naval Ravikant says this is "The best book I've read in 2018, I highly recommend it," praising Taleb's incisive analysis of risk and accountability.

Part of: Infinite Library: A Monthly Book Club Exploring Naval Ravikant's Favorite Books

On Saturday, October 5th, from 6-8 pm, Feldman's Books will host Jerry Garcia Night, an event celebrating the life and music of the iconic Grateful Dead frontman. In collaboration with the Magic Theatre and Culture Clash, this evening will delve into the rich cultural history of the 1960s. The event will be a homecoming of sorts, taking place near the site where The Warlocks, later known as The Grateful Dead, performed their first concert at Magoo's Pizza in 1965.

The night will feature a variety of musical acts, including performances by Steve Wyreman, Joshua Raoul Brody, and David Gans, all of whom are dedicated Jerry Garcia enthusiasts.

Additionally, the event will present selected scenes from Richard Montoya's upcoming jukebox musical, "Jerry Garcia in the Lower Mission," which explores Garcia's life and legacy through a theatrical lens. Attendees will gain insight into Jerry Garcia's reflections, childhood memories, and the stories behind his songs. This event promises to be a significant cultural moment, merging Bay Area history with live performances and storytelling. Following the musical and theatrical presentations, there will be a talkback session with Richard Montoya and David Gans, offering deeper discussions about Garcia's impact.

October 1, 2024: "The Better Angels of Our Nature" by Steven Pinker

Pinker presents a comprehensive argument that violence has declined throughout human history. He examines various forms of violence, from war to domestic abuse, and explores the psychological and societal factors that have contributed to this decline.

The book challenges common perceptions about the prevalence of violence and offers an optimistic view of human progress. It provides a data-driven perspective on peace and encourages readers to consider how we can continue to reduce violence globally.

Part of: Pathways to Peace: A Feldman's Books Literary Journey

Join us at Feldman’s Books on Tuesday, October 1, from 4:00 to 5:30 PM for our third paper crane folding event. Our goal is to fold 1,000 cranes to send to Hiroshima as a gesture of peace, and we’ve already completed 429.

Gwen Minor will guide participants in the art of origami, emphasizing the crane's significance as a symbol of hope. All ages are welcome, and materials will be provided—let's come together to promote peace in our community!

Following our paper crane folding event, join us at Feldman’s Books on October 1, from 5:30 to 6:00 PM for a reading and discussion of Mahatma Gandhi's article "Justice in Palestine." This session will explore Gandhi's views on the complex issue of Palestine, emphasizing his commitment to non-violence and justice.

The event is part of our Pathways to Peace book club series, which encourages thoughtful dialogue on global peace initiatives.

Immediately after, we will delve into Steven Pinker's "The Better Angels of Our Nature" to further discuss themes of peace and human progress.

From 10am-12pm on Sunday, August 18th, The Bike Kitchen with bicycle enthusiast and Shadetree mechanic Clayton Keller is back! Community members are invited on a first-come-first-serve basis to bring in their bicycles for some maintenance—to learn and to enjoy the wonders of bicycles, combined with coffee and doughnuts.

Looks who's back!

From 10am-12pm on Sunday, August 18th, at the same time as our bike kitchen, Sabina, the Therapy Dog will be at Feldman’s Books.

Come by the shop on your way to the farmer’s market, and steal a moment from your busy day inside the bookstore for a free therapy session from Sabina. No questions asked...

September 27, 2024 at 6:00 PM

Join us for a special evening at Feldman's Books on Friday, September 27th, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM for a private screening and fundraiser of the indie film You'll Lose A Good Thing, produced and directed by Aidan Stone. This unique event offers you the last chance to experience the film in the very location where it was shot before it hits theaters next year. This will be only the second time You'll Lose A Good Thing has been screened publicly - for the community that produced it.

Tickets are available for $100, or you can choose a pay-what-you-can option, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate. All proceeds from this event will go directly towards submission fees for film festivals.

Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy an engaging film while contributing to a worthy cause in the heart of our beloved bookstore!

September 26, 2024: "One Hundred Years of Solitude" by Gabriel García Márquez

A masterpiece of magical realism that Verghese has cited as a major influence. He admires Márquez's ability to blend the fantastical with the everyday, and how the novel captures the essence of a family's history.

Part of: Vital Volumes: A Book Club Dedicated to the Works and Inspirations of Abraham Verghese

Reserve your seat for this event on Eventbrite.

September 24, 2024: 1- The Magician: "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho

Coelho's masterpiece follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, on his quest to find his Personal Legend, mirroring the Magician's power of manifestation. The protagonist's journey reflects the Magician's ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary. Santiago's encounters with various mentors represent the Magician's access to divine wisdom and earthly knowledge. The alchemical processes described in the book parallel the Magician's skill in transmuting base elements into gold. The novel's theme of "the universe conspiring to help you" aligns with the Magician's mastery over the four elements and ability to channel universal energy.

Part of: The Fool’s Journey: A Literary Journey through the Tarot

On Wednesday September 25, at 6 PM, we will be discussing Marcus Aurelius' classic work Meditations for the second time. Meditations is a series of personal writings by Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor from AD 161 to 180, recording his private notes to himself and ideas on Stoic philosophy. Marcus Aurelius wrote the 12 books of the Meditations in Koine Greek as a source for his own guidance and self-improvement.

Magpie Jazz Duo, this Friday, September 20th, from 4 to 6pm at Feldman’s Books, will play jazz piano into the afternoon.

"Peace is every step."

— Thich Nhat Hanh

Celebrate the International Day of Peace with us at Feldman’s Books, where our all-day event features a moving display of paper cranes crafted in honor of the atomic bomb victims, which we will send to Hiroshima in November.

Discover our commitment to peace activism through our Pathways to Peace book club and prepare for our LitQuake symposia on "The Literature of War and Peace," coming up in October.

Engage with narratives that inspire empathy and action towards a harmonious future, and as a token of peace, we will be giving away flowers to attendees.

Whether you're a seasoned peace activist or new to these conversations, Feldman's Books invites you to join us on this journey towards understanding and reconciliation.

“We should consider every day lost on which we have not danced at least once.”

— Nietzsche.

Come hang out and dance in the bookstore. We'll lower the lights, turn up the volume and have some fun. Join us, will you?

The Rational Optimist presents a compelling case for optimism about the human condition and our future prospects. Ridley argues that trade and specialization have been the driving forces behind human progress, enabling innovation and improving living standards throughout history. He challenges pessimistic views about resource depletion, overpopulation, and environmental degradation, offering evidence-based counterarguments.

The book explores how human cooperation and exchange of ideas have consistently led to solutions for seemingly insurmountable problems.

Naval Ravikant describes this as "The most brilliant and enlightening book I've read in years," appreciating its positive outlook on human progress.

Part of: Infinite Library: A Monthly Book Club Exploring Naval Ravikant's Favorite Books

From 5-6pm, local educator Gwen Minor and one of her students will lead a hands-on origami session, teaching participants to create paper cranes in honor of Sadako’s story (wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadako_Sasaki).

In collaboration with local schools, we aim to fold 1,000 cranes to send to Hiroshima as a gesture of remembrance and a commitment to world peace.

September 3, 2024: "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Mandela's autobiography chronicles his life from childhood through his 27-year imprisonment and eventual rise to become South Africa's first Black president. The book provides insight into the struggle against apartheid and Mandela's philosophy of reconciliation. It demonstrates how peaceful resistance and forgiveness can overcome deep-rooted conflict and injustice. Mandela's journey offers valuable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and the power of non-violent activism.

Part of: Pathways to Peace: A Feldman's Books Literary Journey

Feldman's Books is hosting its eighth Stoic Book Club, featuring a discussion of Andy Grove's memoir "Swimming Across.” This event continues the bookstore's tradition of exploring local stoic thinkers, following their April discussion of Matthew B. Crawford's "Shop Class As Soul Craft.”

Andy Grove, the former CEO of Intel and a Silicon Valley legend, exemplifies stoic principles through his resilience and strength of spirit as detailed in his memoir. The book club will delve into Grove's experiences, from his childhood in Hungary during World War II to his rise as a tech industry pioneer, examining how these challenges shaped his stoic outlook.

Participants will have the opportunity to discuss how Grove's life story reflects stoic virtues and how these principles can be applied in modern contexts, particularly in the tech-driven landscape of Silicon Valley.

"Democracy just cannot flourish amid fear. Liberty cannot bloom amid hate."

—Vice President Kamala Harris

Join us at Feldman’s Books on Thursday, August 22nd at 6:30 PM for a watch party celebrating Kamala Harris’ acceptance speech. This event marks a historic moment as Harris becomes the first woman of South Asian and African American descent nominated for president. 

Attendees will have the chance to engage in discussions about the significance of her speech for democracy and representation.

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness and reflect on a pivotal moment in American history. Karen Grove will host the event.

This beloved novella follows a young prince's journey across the universe, embodying the Fool's innocence and openness to new experiences. The prince's encounters with various characters represent the Fool's willingness to learn from different perspectives. His relationship with the fox teaches him about the importance of connections, mirroring the Fool's potential for growth. The story's whimsical nature and profound insights reflect the Fool's simultaneous naivety and wisdom. Ultimately, the prince's return to his planet symbolizes the Fool's circular journey of self-discovery.

Part of: The Fool’s Journey: A Literary Journey through the Tarot

"I'll be seeing you in all the old familiar places that this heart of mine embraces."

— Billie Holiday

Gather at Feldman's Books on Sunday, August 18th from 5-7 PM to honor the memory of Dorothy Feldman (1929-2024). As the mother of bookstore founders Jack and Steve, and grandmother to Rio and Sam, Dorothy was the family's original book merchant, leaving behind a legacy filled with love, pragmatism, and a passion for literature.

This memorial event will be a heartfelt gathering for the community to come together, celebrating Dorothy's life with music and refreshments. Join us in sharing stories and memories, as we pay tribute to a remarkable woman who has touched the lives of many through her dedication to books and family.

From 10am-12pm on Sunday, August 18th, The Bike Kitchen with bicycle enthusiast and Shadetree mechanic Clayton Keller is back! Community members are invited on a first-come-first-serve basis to bring in their bicycles for some maintenance—to learn and to enjoy the wonders of bicycles, combined with coffee and doughnuts.

Colin Hamilton will perform jazz piano, vocals, and violin on Sunday, August 18th, from 3-5pm. Colin has been performing in Northern California and beyond for over three decades. He appears frequently in the Bay Area as a pianist, vocalist, and string player. Don't miss an afternoon solo performance of tasteful vocal and piano renditions of American Songbook classics a la Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Thelonious Monk, and others. 

Have a look at Colin's website for more information about him.

Join Galaxy Starborn for a delightful Children's Sing-along and Story Time at Feldman's Books on Sunday, August 18th, from 10:15 to 10:45 AM. This heartwarming event invites families to sing along to beloved songs and enjoy a selection of engaging children's picture books from the bookstore's children's corner. Please note that all children must be accompanied by an adult who will supervise them during the event.

The sing-along coincides with the Menlo Park Farmer's Market and other exciting Feldman's events, including Bike Kitchen and Sabina the Therapy Dog.

Looks who's back!

From 10am-12pm on Sunday, August 18th, at the same time as our bike kitchen, Sabina, the Therapy Dog will be at Feldman’s Books.

Come by the shop on your way to the farmer’s market, and steal a moment from your busy day inside the bookstore for a free therapy session from Sabina. No questions asked...

Join mayday mae! for an intimate, all-ages concert at Feldman's Books in Menlo Park on Friday, August 16th, from 6-7:30 PM. Experience her music and discover how the literature of femmes past inspires her art. Whether you want to dance, read, or just listen, this event is perfect for meeting fellow "girls into music."

For more, check out her Spotify and Instagram.

Thursday, August 15th·at 6pm. "My Own Country" by Abraham Verghese. Verghese's first book, a memoir of his time as a young doctor in Tennessee during the early days of the AIDS epidemic. It explores themes of identity, belonging, and the doctor-patient relationship. Verghese has described this book as his "coming of age" as a writer and physician, reflecting on how this experience shaped his understanding of medicine and storytelling.

Note: Although Dr. Verghese will not be present at this book club, we hope to invite him to future such gatherings.

Part of: Vital Volumes: A Book Club Dedicated to the Works and Inspirations of Abraham Verghese

The Dog Days Are Over: An Evening Celebrating the Book Launch of ‘Tennessee Goes to the Beach’

“I’ve got my collar, she’s got her key. Let’s head out the door and go to the sea.”

— Dr. Tennessee TwoBrainz, Esq.

Join us on Saturday, August 10th at 6pm for an evening celebrating the Book Launch of ‘Tennessee Goes to the Beach’ on August 10th, 2024, from 6-7:30 PM.

Celebrate Jeanine Keller’s delightful picture book for dogs with music and readings, featuring works like Robinson Jeffers’s “The House-dog’s Grave” and J. Allen Boone’s “Kinship With All Life.”

Meet our special guest, Sabina the Therapy Dog, who will debut as Tennessee in the book. Enjoy an evening filled with warmth, loyalty, and respect for our four-legged friends at Feldman’s Books, just as the dog days of summer come to a close.

Buy the book online.

"Works of art are of an infinite solitude, and no means of approach is so useless as criticism. Only love can touch and hold them and be fair to them."

— Rainer Maria Rilke, Letters on Cezanne

On Friday, August 9 at 6pm, Feldman's Books will host an engaging philosophical discussion on art, beauty, and their connection to wonder and living well, led by friends of the bookstore, Matthew B. Crawford and Adrian Walker.

The event will explore how artistic experiences can enrich our lives and cultivate a sense of awe, drawing on Crawford's expertise in craftsmanship and Walker's background in philosophy and theology. Attendees will be encouraged to participate in a thought-provoking discussion on the role of art in fostering personal growth and societal well-being. This intimate gathering promises to offer fresh perspectives on the transformative power of art and its ability to shape our understanding of the world around us.

Painting: Apples & Oranges, Cezanne, 1900

From 4-6pm, local educator Gwen Minor and one of her students will lead a hands-on origami session, teaching participants to create paper cranes in honor of Sadako’s story (wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadako_Sasaki).

In collaboration with local schools, we aim to fold 1,000 cranes to send to Hiroshima as a gesture of remembrance and a commitment to world peace.

Hersey's groundbreaking work of journalism tells the stories of six survivors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. The book provides a haunting account of the immediate and long-term effects of nuclear warfare. It humanizes the victims of war and forces readers to confront the devastating consequences of weapons of mass destruction. 

"Hiroshima" remains a powerful argument for nuclear disarmament and international peace efforts. Join us to contemplate this book on the 79th anniversary of the tragedy at Hiroshima.

Part of: Pathways to Peace: A Feldman's Books Literary Journey

Sapiens takes readers on a journey through human history, from the Stone Age to the twenty-first century. Harari explores how Homo sapiens came to dominate the Earth, examining the cognitive, agricultural, and scientific revolutions that shaped our species.

The book challenges many commonly held beliefs about human progress and offers thought-provoking insights into our past, present, and future. It delves into complex topics such as the rise of empires, the role of religion, and the potential impact of artificial intelligence on humanity.

Naval Ravikant has called this "the best book of the last decade I have read," praising its comprehensive and engaging approach to human history.

Part of: Infinite Library: A Monthly Book Club Exploring Naval Ravikant's Favorite Books