Readings and Events




Inkberry’s reading series has two goals: to feature established writers from around the country, creating a venue where the public can talk with these writers about their craft, and to promote up-and-coming writers from our own region whose work may not yet have found a wide audience. Inkberry’s reading series is a “moveable feast,” migrating around the region. We bring literature to you! Please check carefully to see where each event will be held. For more information about our upcoming readings, contact Inkberry at 664-0775.

WordPlay Featuring Jennifer Trainer Thompson

Papyri Books, 45 Eagle St.
December 13, 7pm
Free

Jennifer Trainer Thompson will read selections from her book The Joy of Family Traditions: A Season-by-Season Companion to 400 Celebrations and Activities in this installment of the WordPlay series co-presented by Inkberry and Papyri Books.

Trainer Thompson has written more than fifteen books, which range in subject matter from theories of the universe to spicy vegetarian cooking. Nominated for three James Beard awards and dubbed the “Queen of Hot” by Associated Press, she’s recognized as a leader in the spicy foods movement.

The Joy of Family Traditions is a season-by-season journey through the year that presents family-oriented holidays, holy days, milestone events, curious customs, and once in a lifetime occasions. The book offers inspiration to parents, grandparents, and parents-to-be for creating, adapting, and preserving holidays and other occasions. Learn more about the book at Joy of Family Traditions.com. The reading will be followed by open-mike.

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WordPlay featuring Robert Ronnow

Papyri Books, 45 Eagle STreet
January 10, 7pm
Free

Poet Robert Ronnow will read from his newest book titled New and Selected Poems, 1975-2005, in addition to other selections.

Ronnow has previously published two poetry collections: Janie Huzzie Bows (Barnwood Press, 1983) and Absolutely Smooth Mustard (Barnwood Press, 1985, originally published as White Waits). He has served as executive director of several non-profit social service and environmental organizations. He has also been a forest worker in the western and northeastern U.S. He plays jazz trumpet. He lived in New York City for twenty years before relocating to the Berkshires. He currently resides in Williamstown with his wife and two sons.

After a brief intermission, Ronnow’s reading will be followed by an open-mike. The evening will be moderated by former Inkberry board member Gail Burns.

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WordPlay featuring Juliane Hiam

Papyri Books, 45 Eagle St.
February 14, 7pm
Free

Featured author Juliane Hiam will read from her recently finished novel, The Cum Laude Girls.

Hiam has worked as a screenwriter in Hollywood, has had plays produced at Shakespeare and Company and the Berkshire Theater Festival, has had a weekly column in the Berkshire Eagle (which was also syndicated nationally), and currently resides in Pittsfield with her four children. Today she serves as writer-in-residence for the Kidspace program in the North Adams elementary schools.

Gail Burns of Williamstown will host the event for Inkberry. After the reading there will be a brief intermission, followed by the popular Wordplay open mic. Refreshments will be available, and admission is free and open to the public.

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