Join author Karen Foresti Hempson as she presents her latest work, Shellback. The first half of this young adult historical fiction takes place in Upstate New York during the twentieth century. The story focuses on a young boy named Francis (or“Fudz”), a child of Italian immigrant parents, who struggles through hard times of the Great Depression, and Prohibition. His goal is to “get outta here” and escape poverty. The second half traces his journey as a young sailor through World War II Pacific battles. Fictitious characters and events are based on true-to-life individuals and happenings.

This presentation will include a special look at artifacts relating to the Pacific Theater of WWII from the author’s personal collection and the collection of the Cayuga Museum of History and Art. The book talk will begin at 6:30 PM at the Equal Rights Heritage Center at 25 South St. on Wednesday, November 20. Admission is free, though donations will be greatly appreciated. Copies of Shellback will be available to purchase, and the author will remain onsite to sign books following the presentation. Contact Geoffrey Starks at geoffrey@cayugamuseum.org or (315) 253-8051 with any questions.