Author and journalist Naomi Hirahara (Photo – Mike Pashistoran)
Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena is inducting Edgar Award-honored author and journalist Naomi Hirahara as the next honoree to be immortalized with her handprints and signature in the prestigious Author Walk of Fame.
By Mike Pashistoran
Vromans states, “Naomi Hirahara is an award-winning mystery novelist and nonfiction writer of the Japanese American experience in the United States.”
Naomi is a Pasadena born girl with deeps roots in this area! It’s not unusual to see the author strolling the city with her sidekick Jack Russell Terrier, Tulo. We caught up with author Hirahara (and Tulo!) this week at EuroPane, a local cafe in Pasadena, and a favorite of the late Pulitzer Prize restaurant/food journalist Jonathan Gold. She gave us some thoughts on receiving this literary honor:
Vroman’s has always been part of my childhood memory and is one of the few Pasadena institutions that still exists from that time period. To actually be able to go and buy a book at a store was a precious experience. Its longevity is a testament not only to those who own and operate it, but also the people of Pasadena and its environs for valuing books and literature.
To be a part of being the Walk of Fame is an unbelievable experience. In fact, I suspect I won’t even believe it as it happens! But I will accept the honor to mark that importance of marginalized, ethnic stories, many more that need to be told.
Come witness, in front of the historic bookshop, writer Hirahara honored with this dedication and to celebrate all of her important contributions to literature and the community, on Saturday, November 10, at 12 noon. You’re welcome to stay afterward for a public reception and a special conversation between Naomi Hirahara and author/journalist, Nancie Clare.
Time and Dates Saturday, Nov. 10 at 12:00 pm Location Vroman's Bookstore 695 E. Colorado Boulevard Pasadena, CA 91101
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