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Love, Queenie: Merle Oberon, Hollywood’s First South Asian Star
Join the Toledo Museum of Art Library & Archives on Wednesday, January 7 from 5:30–7pm for a discussion of Love, Queenie, Mayukh Sen’s newly researched biography of iconic actress Merle Oberon. Sen sheds fresh light on Oberon’s remarkable life—from her early years in India as Estelle “Queenie” Thompson to her transformation into a Hollywood star and the first performer of color nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. toledomuseum.org/events
Authors! with Connie Berry
Join the Toledo Lucas County Public Library for an evening of mystery and masterful storytelling with New York Times–bestselling author Connie Berry on Thursday, January 8 at 7pm at the Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. Berry will discuss her newest novel, A Grave Deception, a twist-filled mystery sure to delight fans of smart, character-driven crime fiction. Doors open at 6:30pm for this all-ages event. toledolibrary.org
Uncloistered Poetry Online
Settle in for an inspiring night of verse at Uncloistered Poetry Online, returning Sunday,
January 11 from 6–8:30pm. This long-running virtual series—held on the second full weekend of each month—features spotlight readings from guest poets, followed by an open mic where attendees share their own work (5 minutes per reader). Follow Uncloistered Poetry on Facebook for updates.
Aya Khalil – Ramadan for Everyone
Celebrate the spirit of the season with award-winning children’s author Aya Khalil at Gathering Volumes on Saturday, January 31 from 2:30–4pm. Khalil returns for a joyful kids’ book launch featuring her new picture book, Ramadan for Everyone—a warm, beautifully illustrated story about sisterhood, faith and the small acts of kindness that make the holy month meaningful. gatheringvolumes.com
Respect Tha Mic Poetry Night
Returning Wednesday, January 14, from 7–9pm at The Code Bar and Grill, 827 Starr Ave, this long-running monthly series—held on the second Wednesday of each month—offers a dynamic mix of poetry, music and stand-up. Attendees are welcome to the stage to share their own work during open mic. $5. toledopoet.com
