Chicago writer Marisel Vera’s latest novel, The Taste of Sugar, tells the story of a young couple who leave Puerto Rico to work in the Hawaiian sugar plantations after they lose their coffee farm in the aftermath of the 1898 U.S. Invasion and the 1899 San Ciriaco Hurricane. As we approach the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Maria, the deadly storm that struck Puerto Rico in September 2017, Vera and CHF’s Marilynn Thoma Artistic Director Alison Cuddy discuss how the novel depicts the parallels between these two catastrophic events, the task of translating history into heart-wrenching fiction, and themes of alienation and exodus—as resonant today as some 120 years ago, when The Taste of Sugar takes place.

This live, interactive program is part of Between the Lines, an exclusive series for CHF Members programmed as a benefit for their support.

• This program is exclusive to CHF members at the Associates level and up. Interested in participating? Become a CHF Member at the Associates level or above ($50+) or renew your membership today!
• There is a two-step process to register for this event. After becoming a member at the Associated level or above ($50+), you will receive a special email from the Development team with links to register for each Book Club event. You will register through these links in order to receive calendar reminders about the event and your unique access URL – this is what enables you to join the live virtual event and interact with the author during the book club.
• Please note: if you have recently purchased or renewed a membership, someone from the Development team will email you registration information for the Book Club events within a few business days. We have a small, dedicated staff and appreciate your patience!
• This event will take place on Zoom with a live Q+A.