Book Notes: Noted poet Raptosh to read at JACC on Oct. 24
Diana Raptosh, the Idaho writer in residence, will read from her works on Oct. 24 at the Jacklin Arts and Cultural Center in Post Falls.
Raptosh, who holds the Eyck-Berringer Endowed Chair in English at the College of Idaho in Caldwell, recently published her fourth book of poems, “American Amnesiac” (Etruscan Press), which made the long list for the 2013 National Book Award for Poetry.
Raptosh has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize, and has won three fellowships from the Idaho Commission on the Arts. She lives with her family in Boise, where she also serves as the city’s poet laureate.
Her Oct. 24 talk is free and begins at 7 p.m. The JACC is located at 405 N. William St. Call (208) 457-8650 for more information.
Idaho: Poetry central
The University of Idaho’s Visiting Writers Series is bringing Tyehimba Jess to the Palouse later this month.
Jess is a slam poet and writer who has won numerous awards, including a fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts and the 2007 Whiting Fellowship. He was born in Detroit, earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Chicago and an MFA from New York University. He teaches English at the City University of New York’s College of Staten Island.
Jess, whose collection “leadbelly” was winner of the 2004 National Poetry Series, will read in the Law School Courtroom at the Menard Law Building at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23. The event is free.
In a news release, Doug Heckman, the UI’s MFA creative writing director, called Jess’ readings “world renown.”
“He’s an award-winning slam poet who also is highly regarded in the academic community – a real feat,” Heckman said.
Slice of history
The Blanchard Community Center is selling copies of “The Pioneers of Blanchard, Idaho … The Spirits That Made Spirit Valley” by Fielden L. Poirier Sr.
The book, originally published in 1977, features early pioneer history and photos, and sells for $15. It’s available at the center, 650 Rusho Road, or by calling (208) 437-1037. Mail orders can be sent to BASIC, Box 127, Blanchard, ID 83804. Be sure to include an additional $5 for postage and handling.
The community center also has copies of “Out Blanchard Way,” by Fielden Poirier Jr., and the “Spirit Valley Cookbook: The Food and History of Blanchard, Idaho.” Both are $15 each.