Homer Alaska - Arts

As part of Own the Night, the teen component of the Summer @ HPL Summer Reading Program, The Homer Public Library presents two events with author and cartoonist Jason Shiga. Shiga incorporates puzzles, mysteries and unconventional narrative techniques into his work. Shiga gives a presentation at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the library called "Interactive Comics and the Making of 'Meanwhile.'" There will be a book signing following the presentation.

Next Thursday, July 26, from 1-3 p.m. Shiga offers a workshop, "How to Make Interactive Comics." Both of these events are free. The workshop is for 10 to 17 year-olds, and because space is limited, the library asks that participants pre-register either in person at the library or by email to CHaines@ci.homer.ak.

"Meanwhile," Shiga's latest book, has tabs at the side of each page directing readers to choose the next step in their adventure. The book's branching story is far from a quick read — to explore each story option, readers will likely have to cycle through the various paths multiple times, all while trying to avoid wiping out mankind. The "choose your own adventure" structure of "Meanwhile" works particularly well with the story's time travel element.