Elmhurst native returns to share memoir

A former Elmhurst resident and author, E. Sheila Johnson, will make a homecoming this month to read excerpts from her memoir, "My Father, in Snow," that reflects growing up in a large family in Elmhurst in the 1950s and '60s.

In a program co-sponsored by the Elmhurst History Museum, Johnson will read from her memoir during an appearance at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at the Elmhurst Public Library, 125 S. Prospect Ave.

The book takes the reader inside Johnson's big family and highlights the intense contrast between its warmth and the sometimes cold outside world. In remembering their father, Johnson and her eight brothers and sisters reveal echoes of his character within their own.

The event marks a homecoming for the author, who moved east when she was 14. The program is presented in conjunction with the library's June storytelling theme and connects with the museum's mission for preserving and sharing the history of Elmhurst.

The author will sell and sign books after the presentation.

The program is free and priority is given to Elmhurst Public Library card holders. Reservations may be made online at elmhurstpubliclibrary.org or by calling (630) 279-8696.