Magic City Books celebrates spring with author events, readings in Tulsa

Magic City Books is rolling out a packed schedule of author events this spring, featuring everything from poetry and memoirs to family-friendly story time.

Jenna Akuma, executive director of the Tulsa Literary Coalition, joined News On 6 to talk about what’s on the calendar.

What’s happening at Magic City Books this month?

“We’ve had a very busy spring already,” Akuma said. “April had our Magic City Book Bash and just a bunch of events, and then we have some events we're going to talk about today as well.”

Which new book is generating buzz?

“This is The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong,” Akuma said. “It is a beautifully written novel. It is Oprah’s new book club pick. It’s about the American experience through the perspective of those in the margins, and it’s all about building community, both the community we’re born into and the one we build for ourselves.”

What else is on the reading list?

Akuma also highlighted We Can Do Hard Things by Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach and Amanda Doyle.

“They explore 20 big life questions from both personal perspectives and expert advice. It’s a unique self-help book that reminds us we’re not alone.”

Which authors are coming to Tulsa this week?

“Tomorrow, we are celebrating Joy Harjo with a full-circle-of-life theme,” Akuma said.

Harjo will present two of her latest books:

1. For a Girl Becoming, a picture book about welcoming a new baby into the family
2. Washing My Mother’s Body, a reflection on grief and loss

“It’s a ticketed event at All Souls Unitarian Church at 7 p.m. Each ticket comes with a copy of Washing My Mother’s Body. Tickets are still available at magiccitybooks.com.”

What is The Wanderer’s Curse about?

“This is Jennifer Hope Choi’s new memoir,” Akuma said. “She was a former Tulsa Artist Fellowship fellow and writes about her Korean heritage, her childhood, and creative self-doubt.”

Magic City Books is partnering with the Tulsa Artist Fellowship and Philbrook Museum for a free event on Thursday at 7 p.m. Registration is required. The evening includes light bites inspired by the memoir and a conversation with Bon Appétit editor Christina Chaey.

Are there any events for children?

“We’re launching a summer story time on the first and third Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.,” Akuma said. “It will be themed to the book being read, with snacks and crafts.”

1. June 5: Bad Kitty anniversary, cat-themed
2. June 19: Local author Alton Carter reads Different Altogether

Is there a book club for young readers?

“We’re starting a limited summer book club for middle grade readers on the second Wednesday of each month,” Akuma said. “The first book is How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell, and that meeting is June 11.”

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