Linda Kass will discuss her novel World News from Waverley High with Jane S. SmithAbout this Event
October 6 | In-Store | 6:00 PM
Linda Kass, World News from Waverley High
Join us for an evening with Linda Kass who will discuss her new book, , described as “a soulful coming-of-age novel with an unusually appealing, intelligent, and open-hearted narrator” (Tom Perrotta). Linda will be in conversation with Evanston’s Jane S. Smith. Followed by a book-signing.
Doors and minibar open at 5:30PM
Getting here: We are located at 1620 Orrington Avenue, in downtown Evanston, just one block east of the Davis Street Metra and CTA public transit stops. There is metered street parking as well as numerous parking garages nearby.
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About the book: 1969. High school junior Lena Rosen begins the academic year the same way she always has—anxiously looking for her homeroom, excited to see friends, and comfortable in her diverse community as the daughter of Jewish immigrants. But in Linda Kass’s moving new novel, Lena’s first few classes, Current History and Journalism, address head-on timely American issues, such as the Vietnam War, racism, and environmental destruction. The swirling discourse in her classes contrasts sharply with Lena’s growing attraction to Jack Stone, the high school newspaper’s editor.
But when there is civil unrest at her school and then a bomb threat–and as her older sister in college shares updates about frightening developments–headlines hit home and Lena not only awakens to the world she will soon claim, but she also awakens to her responsibility for it.
With chapters titled by classic songs from the time, and a narrative shaped by Lena’s sharp, ethical mind as a budding journalist, takes us back to key moments in American history through the lens of young adults. With their idealism and hope, and the truths gained from hindsight, what seems simply a poignant, gripping tale becomes more—a powerful reflection on our own world.
About the author: LINDA KASS began her career as a magazine journalist and correspondent for regional and national publications. Along with her forthcoming novel, World News from Waverley High (September 2026), she is the author of three previous works of historical fiction: Tasa’s Song (2016), A Ritchie Boy (2020), and Bessie (2023). A longtime civic leader, she is the founder and owner of Gramercy Books, an independent bookstore in Central Ohio. Linda lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband, Frank; they have four children, six grandchildren, and a labradoodle named Wally. Find her online at lindakass.com.
Event venue
Bookends & Beginnings, 1620 Orrington Avenue, Evanston, United States
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