Author Events
Tess Uriza Holthe in Conversation with Linda Watanabe McFerrin
Thursday, November 1, 7 - 8:30pm
Mountain View Senior Center, 266 Escuela Ave.
It was poet, novelist, and teacher Linda Watanabe McFerrin’s class that launched Tess Uriza Holthe’s interest in writing. A year and a half later, Holthe wrote When the Elephants Dance, a novel of human survival in the crossfire of warfare based upon her own family stories in the Philippines during World War II. Join us for a thoughtful conversation between these two Bay Area authors.
Meet the Author
Thursday, November 29, 7 - 8:30pm
Mountain View High School Theater, 3535 Truman Ave.
In When the Elephants Dance stories of Filipino culture and history are woven into the harsh realities of the last days of World War II in the Philippines. Hopefully, you’ve read the book and now’s your opportunity to ask the author your questions. Author Tess Uriza Holthe will speak and answer questions.
Discussion Events
Read-Aloud with Crafts & Snacks
Friday, November 2, 4 - 5pm
Library Community Room, 585 Franklin St.
Haven’t read the book yet? Come hear a passage. Extend your knitting for an extra row or two, bring other crafts for idle hands, or just relax and listen. There’ll also be Filipino snack food to enjoy.
The Irresistible Magic of Magical Realism
Wednesday, November 7, 7:30pm
East-West Bookstore, 324 Castro St.
As they hide in the cellar, the book’s characters tell magical stories to one another based on Filipino myth and legend. When the Elephants Dance is a loving tribute to the magical realism that infuses Filipino culture, where the external, physical reality of human existence is combined with the internal, psychological aspects, such as emotions, dreams and imagination.
Coffee Klatch
Wednesday, November 14, 10am
The NEW Clocktower Coffee, 425 N. Whisman Rd.
Enjoy a free cup of coffee and a pastry sampling during a lively, informal discussion of When the Elephants Dance.
Tracing the MV Community Tree
Saturday, November 17, 10am-noon
Graham Middle School Multipurpose Room, 1175 Castro St.
When the Elephants Dance touches on the sometimes difficult blending of heritage, social status, ethnicity and religion. This interactive discussion traces our city’s family tree and shows what perspectives and realities contributed to today’s cultural mix. Led by Professor Dan Gonzales, San Francisco State University.
Click here to view some historical facts about Filipino Americans.
Book Discussion
Sunday, November 18, 2pm
Books Inc., 301 Castro St.
Characters caught in the crossfire of Japanese and American fighting during the WWII invasion of the Philippines, struggle to keep themselves and their families alive and must decide whether their ultimate safety lies in hiding or in fighting back. This drop-in discussion will examine the specific elements of the book as well as its universal themes.
Family Events
Saturday Sampler
Saturday, November 3, 10:15-11:00am
Library Community Room, 585 Franklin St.
Stories, puppets, music and more, for kids and their families.
Saturday Sampler (Spanish)
Sábado, 3 de Noviembre, 11:15-11:59 AM
Salón de la Comunidad de la Biblioteca, Calle Franklin #585
Cuentos, títeres, música y más para niños y sus familias.
Celebrate Filipino Culture
Wednesday, November 7, 12:30pm
Mountain View High School Main Quad, 3535 Truman Ave.
Student dance performances in traditional dress will be accompanied by food, music and fun! Learn more about the vibrant Filipino culture that exists right here in Mountain View.
Family Stories
Saturday, November 10, 2:00-3:30pm
Library Community Room, 585 Franklin St.
Professional Storyteller, Olga Loya will tell stories from a Mexican family tradition. Anthony Robles, author of Lakas and the Manilatown Fish (as well as other stories about a mischievious boy named Lakas set in the Philippines), will follow with a reading of his book for young children. Refreshments will be provided.
Making Books of Family Stories
Saturday, November 17, 2:00-3:30pm
Library Community Room, 585 Franklin St.
Families are invited to write, draw and assemble books from their own family stories and traditions. Bring photos that you wish to include. All other materials will be provided. Refreshments will be provided.
Film Events
Flags of our Fathers
Saturday, November 3, 2pm
Library Community Room, 585 Franklin St.
Enjoy a free screening of Flags of Our Fathers, the award-winning Clint Eastwood film, focusing on the life stories of the six men who raised the flag at The Battle of Iwo Jima, a turning point in WWII. Stay for discussion afterwards. This film is not suitable for young children.
Click here to view the introduction slides used during the movie presentation.
Letters from Iwo Jima
Sunday, November 4, 2pm
Library Community Room, 585 Franklin St.
See the story of Iwo Jima during WWII from the perspective of the Japanese who fought it. Enjoy a free screening of this other award-winning film from Clint Eastwood and discuss the two films. This movie is not suitable for young children.
Click here to view the introduction slides used during the movie presentation.