author Samantha Hunt reads in Portsmouth

Brooklyn-based author Samantha Hunt will read from her imaginative 2008 novel “The Invention of Everything Else” and participate in a book group discussion at Portsmouth Public Library on Tuesday, March 17.

Set in New York in 1943, Hunt’s second novel follows a fictional chambermaid named Louisa who befriends real-life inventor Nikola Tesla in a hotel. Their mutual love of pigeons strengthens their bond, and Louisa learns about Tesla’s life as a brilliant scientist and struggling immigrant. The book explores the intersection of love and science while delving into a number of other themes, including the father-daughter relationship, romance, and New York history.

Co-sponsored by RiverRun Bookstore, the book group discussion begins at 6 p.m. and the reading begins at 7 p.m. in the Levenson Room at Portsmouth Public Library, 175 Parrott Ave., Portsmouth, 603-427-1540. To RSVP for the book group discussion, e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it  For more information, visit www.riverrunbookstore.com or call 603-431-2100.

Powow Poets move to new venue

After a 14-year collaboration with the Newburyport Art Association, The Powow River Poets will shift their bimonthly poetry reading series to Jabberwocky Books in Newburyport, Mass., beginning on Saturday, March 14. The independent bookstore in the Tannery Mall will first host guest poets Joseph Bottum and Daniel Brown, followed by an open mike event.

A native of South Dakota, Bottum is a widely known poet, essayist, lecturer, media commentator and memoirist who authored “The Fall and Other Poems” in 2001. Author of “Taking the Occasion,” Brown is New York-based poet and music historian with a strong appreciation for the visual arts.  

The series will continue on the second Saturday of every other month, with future events scheduled for May 9, July 11, Sept. 12 and Nov. 14. All readings begin at 3 p.m. at Jabberwocky Books, 50 Water St., Newburyport, Mass., 978-465-9359.