Blue Apple Books to welcome author/ poet Jim Parker, Mahjong expert Bree Beckwith

MADISON – A musical artist whose creativity led to a book of poetry, along with an expert in a game that was the rage during the Roaring Twenties, will meet with their audiences during sessions at Blue Apple Books.

Author Jim Parker and visual artist Don Howard will conduct a book signing for Parker’s book, “A Man Like Me,” and speaking event on June 14 from 4 to 6 p.m.

“Blue Apple Books is honored to welcome local songwriter/performer Jim Parker and artist Don Howard as they introduce ‘A Man Like Me,’ a book featuring extraordinary works of prose, poetry and visual art, coupled with forthright artist statements,” Blue Apple Books owner Robin Dauma said.

Those statements “weave Jim and Don’s perspectives on both the topics and their own life experiences throughout this unique creative collaboration,” Dauma said.

Attendees can preorder books and receive their order at the event. The session will feature brief presentations by Parker and Howard, live music by the duo, lots of laughter and an opportunity to speak with both men and have them sign your books, Dauma said.

“Huntsville’s music and art scene have been indelibly impacted by both of these men, and we can’t wait to have them together, with all of you, as we celebrate their work,” Dauma said.

In another event, the classic Mahjong board game has surged in popularity during its current craze, and local educator Bree Beckwith will share her game expertise. Beckwith has taught “classes in the Birmingham area and expressed interest in teaching classes in Madison after several people approached her about learning (the game),” Dauma said.

“We are thrilled to partner with Bree to make that happen,” Dauma said. The Mahjong classes will target two different skill levels. The class for an introductory level on June 16 will run from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. An intermediate-level class will meet from 7 to 9 p.m.

“Mahjong is a game developed in China in the mid-1800s and first popularized in the 1920s in America. The game is having a huge upswing in popularity a century later,” Dauma said.

Registration for Mahjong is available for a four-member group, a pair or an individual “whatever works best for you. No prior experience is necessary, and we will provide all supplies,” Dauma said.

For tickets and more details about Mahjong, visit shopsouthandpine.com and click the “Events” menu.

South & Pine and Blue Apple Books’ address is 14 Main St., Suites B/C in Madison. For more information, visit Facebook/ Blue Apple Books, blueapplebookstore.com, shopsouthandpine.com or Instagram @blueapplebookstore.