Oregon author Jane Kirkpatrick will share from her 2021 historical novel, “The Healing of Natalie Curtis,” as part of the Hermiston’s One Book, One Path Community Read. The free event is July 14 at the Hermiston Public Library.

HERMISTON — Jane Kirkpatrick, an award-winning Oregon author and speaker, is featured during One Book, One Path Community Read. Coordinated by the Hermiston Public Library, the program’s purpose is to bring people together to discuss a common topic.

Mark Rose, library director, said one of his staff suggested reaching out to Kirkpatrick after reading her 2021 publication, “The Healing of Natalie Curtis.” The book was a finalist for the Western Writers of America Spur Awards for Best Western Historical Novel.

“Reading together builds community which is one of the ways I am so honored when cities choose one of my titles,” Kirkpatrick said. “Walking together on one path, even for the time it takes to read a book, can bring meaningful insights. It’s a privilege to be a part of that.”

People are encouraged to obtain a copy at local bookstores or libraries. Also, electronic access is available via the Library2Go app. Kirkpatrick will discuss her writing process and read from the book July 14, 6 p.m. at the Hermiston library, 235 E. Gladys Ave.

An excerpt from the publisher’s description:

“Classically trained pianist and singer Natalie Curtis isolated herself for five years after a breakdown just before she was to debut with the New York Philharmonic. Guilt-ridden and songless, Natalie can’t seem to recapture the joy music once brought her. In 1902, her brother invites her to join him in the West to search for healing. What she finds are songs she’d never before encountered — the haunting melodies, rhythms and stories of Native Americans.”

About 10 years ago, after reading “Ladies of the Canyon,” a non-fiction book by Leslie Poling-Kemps, Kirkpatrick had a lingering question about Curtis: “What led this woman to make this life change and how was she changed as she intervened for others?”

While a biography is limited to what and when, Kirkpatrick said penning historical fiction allows a writer to explore motivation and intention and the feelings that go with that. The musical interest in the story, she said, was critical for Curtis’ success, as well as her own healing.

“Composer Leonard Bernstein wrote that art helps us discover ourselves,” Kirkpatrick said. “So I hope people will see how music affects their own lives and how they, too, can have an impact in their community and lives around them.”

The author is looking forward to visiting Hermiston again. Kirkpatrick appreciates the town’s diversity and applauds the quality of education and public library in the community. In addition, years ago when she raised watermelons on her John Day River ranch, she obtained the seeds in Hermiston.

Kirkpatrick lives with her husband, Jerry, between Bend and Redmond. They are currently looking to adopt a new cavalier King Charles puppy. When she isn’t writing — or avoiding it by folding laundry — Kirkpatrick enjoys reading as well as watching British mysteries on streaming services.

For more information about One Book, One Path Community Read, contact Rose at 541-567-2882 or mrose@hermiston.or.us. For more about Kirkpatrick and her books, visit www.jkbooks.com.