Author Gary L. Gregg Presents “America 250: George Washington: Citizen, Soldier, Statesman" 

Tuesday, June 16 at 6 pm at the High Plains Heritage Center, 825 Heritage Drive in Spearfish.

You’re invited to join author Professor Gary L Gregg for a talk on his latest book America 250: George Washington: Citizen, Soldier, Statesman at the High Plains Heritage Center on Tuesday, June 16 at 6 pm. Admission is free and books will be available for purchase at the event, presented by High Plains Heritage Center and co-hosted by Henry’s Books.

America 250 is the second book in the South Dakota Biography Series: Faces of Mount Rushmore, which highlights the presidents depicted on the national memorial and other figures connected with its history.

About America 250: George Washington: Citizen, Soldier, Statesman As commander in chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, president of the Constitutional Convention in 1787, and the nation’s first president from 1789 to 1797, Washington emerged not only as the United States’ leading statesman and foremost Founding Father, but as the living symbol of the American Revolution. His name and image are now so ubiquitous, his legacy and legend so much larger than life, that it may seem like he was destined to defeat the world’s most powerful empire and unify a sprawling new nation.

George Washington: Citizen, Soldier, Statesman is a timely reminder that contrary to his grand visage on Mount Rushmore, Washington was not born to greatness—he earned it. Author Gary L. Gregg II highlights the crucial moments of Washington’s career to demonstrate that he was not just a great man, but a good one, who set an example worthy of emulation. 

About the author… Gary L. Gregg II, Ph.D. holds the Mitch McConnell Chair in Leadership at the University of Louisville where he is also director of the McConnell Center. He is an award winning teacher, recipient of the George Washington Medal for Communications from the Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge, and has appeared on many national and international television and radio programs. An award-winning political science teacher and expert on the U.S. presidency, Gregg has written or edited several books, including Securing Democracy: Why We Have an Electoral College.  He has also written or edited a dozen books on the American Founding, George Washington and American politics. 

We look forward to seeing you  on Tuesday, June 16 for this special opportunity at High Plains Heritage Center, 825 Heritage Drive in Spearfish.

We’re Spending “An Afternoon with Dan Jorgensen” at Henry’s Books!

Saturday, June 13 at 11 am

Please join us at Henry’s Books on Saturday, June 13 at 11 am for a special craft talk with author Dan Jorgensen. We’ll have a conversation with the author about the writing process, publishing, and themes from his recent titles including Devil’s Thumb. Advance tickets are required for this event. Each $40 ticket includes a signed copy of Devil’s Thumb.

About the books… Jorgenson’s popular Black Hills Mystery and Adventure series includes the titles And The Wind Whispered, Rainbow Rock, and Devil's Thumb.

• And the Wind Whispered… the tale of three teenaged budding reporters who stumble onto a murder, which is only the beginning of the mystery. With visits from a virtual who's who of the Wild West, the boom town of Hot Springs, South Dakota will not soon forget 1894. 

• Rainbow Rock… Caught in a web of illicit drug dealing and murder, Frank Silver Shore embarks on a quest to find who killed his friend Gene Darveaux and track down a satchel of drug payment money hidden by Darveaux at a place called Rainbow Rock. In a deadly cat-and-mouse game with Gene’s killers, Frank joins forces with grizzled Lakota lawman Al Twocrow and intrepid Hot Springs Star reporter Maria Tager in a race to find the hidden cash and solve Gene’s murder.

• Devil’s Thumb… Autumn, 1925 and residents of the Black Hills mining town of Keystone, South Dakota are excitedly awaiting the start of nearby Mount Rushmore, one of the most ambitious carving projects the world has ever known. But two vicious murders, the discovery of a Bootleg whisky operation linked to Chicago mobster Al Capone, and the kidnapping of Hot Springs Star reporter Minnie Thompson are threatening to derail famed sculptor Gutzon Borglum’s epic plans. 

About the author… Dan Jorgensen is a journalist, public relations professional, and author of 10 books. He is best known for his historical mystery and thriller novels set in and around the Black Hills of South Dakota. A native of Minnesota, Jorgensen grew up on a South Dakota farm, attending a one-room country school and was the first member of his family to attend college. After earning both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from South Dakota State University, he studied creative writing and film at Colorado State University where he wrote his first book Killer Blizzard. He has won awards for both his creative writing and newspaper feature writing and for his work in educational public relations. 

We look forward to seeing you on Saturday, June 13 for this special opportunity at Henry’s Books, 111 E. Hudson in Spearfish. Tickets are available at shophenrysbooks.com

Blood on the Clocktower is a game of murder and mystery, lies and logic, deduction and deception for eight-to-thirteen courageous players and one devious storyteller.

A social game played in person, seated in a circle, each player receives either a ‘good’ or ‘evil’ token with their unique character on it. Good players share information to solve the mystery whilst evil players lie about who they are and what they know. The good team wins if they can piece together their knowledge, trust each other, and execute the demon. The evil team wins if the demon can sow distrust, evade detection, and wipe out the village.

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Sunday June 7th at 4:00 PM for an evening of Blood on the Clocktower, a social deduction game. Space is limited strictly to 12 attendees, so book soon! The cost is $15. Drinks and food available for purchase next door at Nonna’s.

You’re invited to An Evening with Tom Lin, author of Babylon, South Dakota, on Thursday, May 28 at 5:30 at Henry’s Books.

We’ll be in conversation with the author about his genre-bending novel, which has been hailed as “...wonder-full, enchanted and enchanting…the most excited I’ve been about a new book in ages." (Kaveh Akbar, author of Martyr!), and “... a flawless novel that belongs in a category all its own.” (Paige Lewis, author of Canon).

Each $40 ticket entitles the holder to a copy of Babylon, South Dakota. Seating for this special event is limited–reserve your spot today!

About Babylon, South Dakota… When Saul Keng Hsiu and his wife, Mei Lee, move from China to the United States to take possession of a 160-acre homestead bequeathed to them by a distant relative, all they have are the possessions on their back, some hidden gold, and a pocketful of chrysanthemum seeds. After a rocky start and a long, harsh winter, the couple find themselves successfully raising chrysanthemums and livestock, and soon after, a daughter, Mara.

But when representatives from the US Army Corps of Engineers buy an acre of the Hsiu’s farmland and begin building a missile silo, the inexplicable starts to occur: Mara can commune with the animals on the farm, Mei develops a hidden talent for augury, and the chrysanthemums become impervious to everything. When the Hsius learn that the project on their farm is an effort to make America’s nuclear deterrent invulnerable, they see firsthand the long arm of power and empire.

In the years and generations that follow, increasingly impacted by the silo and its residue, the Hsius experience strange, wondrous, and tragic events on their farm. An ambitious epic and an ode to the beauty and glory of our connection to the natural world, Babylon, South Dakota upends the idea of “strangers in a strange land” to become a classic American story. It is a daring novel about how choices reverberate across generations and asks us what we owe to one another.

About the author…Tom Lin was born in China and immigrated to the United States when he was four. A graduate of Pomona College, he also holds a PhD from the University of California, Davis. His first novel, The Thousand Crimes of Ming Tsu, won the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence. He teaches English and creative writing at the University of Iowa.

Blood on the Clocktower is a game of murder and mystery, lies and logic, deduction and deception for eight-to-thirteen courageous players and one devious storyteller.

A social game played in person, seated in a circle, each player receives either a ‘good’ or ‘evil’ token with their unique character on it. Good players share information to solve the mystery whilst evil players lie about who they are and what they know. The good team wins if they can piece together their knowledge, trust each other, and execute the demon. The evil team wins if the demon can sow distrust, evade detection, and wipe out the village.

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Sunday May 17th at 4:00 PM for an evening of Blood on the Clocktower, a social deduction game. Space is limited strictly to 12 attendees, so book soon! The cost is $15. Drinks and food available for purchase next door at Nonna’s.

To purchase tickets, please go to www.shophenrysbooks.com/blackhillsbloodontheclocktower

The Henry’s Books Book Club meets on the third Saturday of each month at 5:00 PM in the Community Room.
Tickets are $10 and must be purchased in advance at Henry’s Books (111 East Hudson St).

Women of Mystery Tour stops at Henry’s Books!

Wednesday, May 13 at 11 am
Tickets: $42 +taxes/fees

Help us welcome the Women of Mystery! You’re invited to join the staff of Henry’s Books for an intimate conversation with Jess Lowrey, Erica Ruth Neubauer, and Shannon Baker on Wednesday, May 13 at 11:00 am. 

We’re thrilled to offer this unique opportunity to meet three award-winning thriller authors at an unforgettable book signing! Each $42 ticket entitles the ticketholder to receive three free books–one from each author (a $57 retail value). Additional titles will be available for purchase throughout the event.

• Jess Lourey’s electrifying new YA dystopian thriller, The Verdant Cage, was named an instant New York Times bestseller. Her award-winning true-crime-inspired thrillers have reached over a million readers, and she is an Edgar & Goodreads Choice nominee and winner of the International Thriller Award.

• Erica Ruth Neubauer is the author of an award-winning traditional mystery series. She also has a hilarious Richard Osman-style mystery fresh off the presses.

• Shannon Baker is a two-time Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers Writer of the Year. Her Nebraska-based Kate Fox series has recently been optioned for TV!

Seating for this special event is limited–reserve your spot today!

The thing about things is they remind people of people. In this workshop, participants will be invited to reflect on their own lives and paint story into form onto pottery. What narratives have helped your life take shape? With the help of facilitators and guided discussion, settle into story and let creative expression lead the way. All materials and kiln time included. Optional ticket upgrade available at event. Created for adults but suitable for attentive children.

Purchase tickets through Spearfish Clayworks at: https://www.spearfishclayworks.com/service-page/storytelling-with-art-at-henry-s-books

April Book Club: Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister
The Henry’s Books Book Club meets on the third Saturday of each month at 5:00 PM in the Community Room.
Tickets are $10 plus the cost of the book.

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Saturday, April 18 from noon to 2 pm as we welcome local author Nicole Fronek for the signing of her book Corporate Coach Approach - A Systematic Guide to Career Development.

About the author…

Nicole Fronek, known as “The Coach” and CEO of Two Horse Productions LLC, is based in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Roles supporting Fortune 100 firms inclusive of CBRE, Chevron, HP, Citigroup, and Marriott International. With two decades of experience in project delivery and client services, she has built her career on a foundation of helping others achieve their goals.

Nicole holds a BA in Communications from California State University, Fullerton, and an MSc in Project Management from The University of Liverpool.

About the book…

In the modern corporate environment, career advancement does not typically occur by chance, but rather through intentional action. Corporate Coach Approach - A Systematic Guide to Career Development was created to help individuals shape their career path while navigating the complexities of the workplace.

Recent graduates and seasoned professionals alike benefit from real-world experience accompanied by narratives to exemplify the subject at hand. Inclusion of relevant case studies provides readers with insight to the development of the tried-and-tested methods found throughout this book. Topics include areas such as establishing a personal brand, stakeholder engagement, and taking action to drive productivity.

Content presented in a consolidated format is aimed at identifying possibilities to heighten visibility, thereby showcasing capabilities. Each point covered integrates an evaluation of actual scenarios encountered and concludes with a summary reinforcing key concepts. This structure offers a quick yet informative view into the 'best of the best practices' and practical strategies for situations frequently found in the work environment.

Whether the aim is to increase confidence, maximize advancement opportunities, or retool an established career, Corporate Coach Approach - A Systematic Guide to Career Development, serves as an 'all-purpose' manual for a range of industries and skill levels. Although a cover-to- cover reading is encouraged, each chapter is designed to stand on its own, providing guidance when it matters most - the moment it's needed.

Blood on the Clocktower is a game of murder and mystery, lies and logic, deduction and deception for eight-to-thirteen courageous players and one devious storyteller.

A social game played in person, seated in a circle, each player receives either a ‘good’ or ‘evil’ token with their unique character on it. Good players share information to solve the mystery whilst evil players lie about who they are and what they know. The good team wins if they can piece together their knowledge, trust each other, and execute the demon. The evil team wins if the demon can sow distrust, evade detection, and wipe out the village.

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Sunday April 5th at 4:00 PM for an evening of Blood on the Clocktower, a social deduction game. Space is limited strictly to 12 attendees, so book soon! The cost is $15. Drinks and food available for purchase next door at Nonna’s.

To purchase tickets, please go to www.shophenrysbooks.com/blackhillsbloodontheclocktower

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Saturday, March 28 from noon to 2 pm for a book signing with author Emersyn Park and celebrate her newest title, Last Arrangement, releasing March 16, 2026!

About the author…

Emersyn was born, raised, and still lives in the Midwest with her two sons, husband, and their spoiled dog, Bandit. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Literature/Language Arts from Southwest Minnesota State University.

When she isn’t writing or reading, Emersyn fulfills her passion by working for a non-profit, Hushabye Nursery, that specializes in caring for babies born substance-exposed.

About the book…

Shadows stretch long in small towns, and Claire can’t shake the feeling she’s being watched.

Leaving behind bruises, secrets, and shattered dreams, Claire Collins flees Nashville and lands in the dusty outskirts of Miner City, South Dakota. In the town’s quiet isolation, she tries to rebuild her life, only to learn that starting over isn’t as simple as leaving.

Whispers from the past begin to surface—quiet, familiar, and impossible to dismiss—seeping into her days and slowly eroding the life she’s trying to build.

She escaped him. Or so she believed.

This haunting blend of family saga and psychological thriller explores the scars we carry, the families we find, and the terrifying lengths some will go to reclaim what they believe belongs to them.

Join your fellow community members in a book club style discussion of “In The Distance,” led by a member of the Spearfish Mini Read Literary Team.

This program is part of the Spearfish Mini Read, a collaborative community literary project by The Henry’s Books Foundation in partnership with the Grace Balloch Memorial Library and The Matthews. All of the books and staffing have been provided for free to the community of Spearfish by The Henry’s Books Foundation through grassroots fundraising. All programming focuses on themes from the book “In the Distance” by Hernan Diaz.

While admission is free, donations to the foundation in the amount you would anticipate paying for a ticket are always welcome. Checks may be written to The Henry’s Books Foundation or online donations can be made through Black Hills Area Community Foundation.

We’d like to recognize our sponsors, with especially deep gratitude to The Friends of the Grace Balloch Memorial Library, without whom we would not have been able to provide this program. Our other generous sponsors include Cornerstone Auto Repair, Mitchell’s Barber Shop, Whole Child Wellness, Black Hills Psychology, Pioneer Bank and Trust, and Spearfish Economic Development Corporation.

Join your fellow community members in a book club style discussion of “In The Distance,” led by a member of the Spearfish Mini Read Literary Team.

This program is part of the Spearfish Mini Read, a collaborative community literary project by The Henry’s Books Foundation in partnership with the Grace Balloch Memorial Library and The Matthews. All of the books and staffing have been provided for free to the community of Spearfish by The Henry’s Books Foundation through grassroots fundraising. All programming focuses on themes from the book “In the Distance” by Hernan Diaz.

While admission is free, donations to the foundation in the amount you would anticipate paying for a ticket are always welcome. Checks may be written to The Henry’s Books Foundation or online donations can be made through Black Hills Area Community Foundation.

We’d like to recognize our sponsors, with especially deep gratitude to The Friends of the Grace Balloch Memorial Library, without whom we would not have been able to provide this program. Our other generous sponsors include Cornerstone Auto Repair, Mitchell’s Barber Shop, Whole Child Wellness, Black Hills Psychology, Pioneer Bank and Trust, and Spearfish Economic Development Corporation.

Expert Mycologist Ian Umphrey shares wisdom and safety tips on hunting edible mushrooms in the Black Hills. All experience levels are welcome!

This program is part of the Spearfish Mini Read, a collaborative community literary project by The Henry’s Books Foundation in partnership with the Grace Balloch Memorial Library and The Matthews. All of the books and staffing have been provided for free to the community of Spearfish by The Henry’s Books Foundation through grassroots fundraising. All programming focuses on themes from the book “In the Distance” by Hernan Diaz.

While admission is free, donations to the foundation in the amount you would anticipate paying for a ticket are always welcome. Checks may be written to The Henry’s Books Foundation or online donations can be made through Black Hills Area Community Foundation.

We’d like to recognize our sponsors, with especially deep gratitude to The Friends of the Grace Balloch Memorial Library, without whom we would not have been able to provide this program. Our other generous sponsors include Cornerstone Auto Repair, Mitchell’s Barber Shop, Whole Child Wellness, Black Hills Psychology, Pioneer Bank and Trust, and Spearfish Economic Development Corporation.

Local expert Madison Ferguson explains the immersive experience of Forest Bathing (mindfulness outdoors) and gives practical tips on making the most of your time spent in the Hills. No soap or bathtub required!

This program is part of the Spearfish Mini Read, a collaborative community literary project by The Henry’s Books Foundation in partnership with the Grace Balloch Memorial Library and The Matthews. All of the books and staffing have been provided for free to the community of Spearfish by The Henry’s Books Foundation through grassroots fundraising. All programming focuses on themes from the book “In the Distance” by Hernan Diaz.

While admission is free, donations to the foundation in the amount you would anticipate paying for a ticket are always welcome. Checks may be written to The Henry’s Books Foundation or online donations can be made through Black Hills Area Community Foundation.

We’d like to recognize our sponsors, with especially deep gratitude to The Friends of the Grace Balloch Memorial Library, without whom we would not have been able to provide this program. Our other generous sponsors include Cornerstone Auto Repair, Mitchell’s Barber Shop, Whole Child Wellness, Black Hills Psychology, Pioneer Bank and Trust, and Spearfish Economic Development Corporation.

Learn about basic foraging in the Black Hills from experts Joe and Ashley from Sage and Cedar Herbal Teas. This workshop is suitable for novices and beginners of all ages.

This program is part of the Spearfish Mini Read, a collaborative community literary project by The Henry’s Books Foundation in partnership with the Grace Balloch Memorial Library and The Matthews. All of the books and staffing have been provided for free to the community of Spearfish by The Henry’s Books Foundation through grassroots fundraising. All programming focuses on themes from the book “In the Distance” by Hernan Diaz.

While admission is free, donations to the foundation in the amount you would anticipate paying for a ticket are always welcome. Checks may be written to The Henry’s Books Foundation or online donations can be made through Black Hills Area Community Foundation.

We’d like to recognize our sponsors, with especially deep gratitude to The Friends of the Grace Balloch Memorial Library, without whom we would not have been able to provide this program. Our other generous sponsors include Cornerstone Auto Repair, Mitchell’s Barber Shop, Whole Child Wellness, Black Hills Psychology, Pioneer Bank and Trust, and Spearfish Economic Development Corporation.

Bring your sack lunch for this lunch and learn as S. Carolyn Short and Shari Potter share their insights for navigating the winter blues and giving your mental health a much needed boost!

This program is part of the Spearfish Mini Read, a collaborative community literary project by The Henry’s Books Foundation in partnership with the Grace Balloch Memorial Library and The Matthews. All of the books and staffing have been provided for free to the community of Spearfish by The Henry’s Books Foundation through grassroots fundraising. All programming focuses on themes from the book “In the Distance” by Hernan Diaz.

While admission is free, donations to the foundation in the amount you would anticipate paying for a ticket are always welcome. Checks may be written to The Henry’s Books Foundation or online donations can be made through Black Hills Area Community Foundation.

We’d like to recognize our sponsors, with especially deep gratitude to The Friends of the Grace Balloch Memorial Library, without whom we would not have been able to provide this program. Our other generous sponsors include Cornerstone Auto Repair, Mitchell’s Barber Shop, Whole Child Wellness, Black Hills Psychology, Pioneer Bank and Trust, and Spearfish Economic Development Corporation.

Blood on the Clocktower is a game of murder and mystery, lies and logic, deduction and deception for eight-to-thirteen courageous players and one devious storyteller.

A social game played in person, seated in a circle, each player receives either a ‘good’ or ‘evil’ token with their unique character on it. Good players share information to solve the mystery whilst evil players lie about who they are and what they know. The good team wins if they can piece together their knowledge, trust each other, and execute the demon. The evil team wins if the demon can sow distrust, evade detection, and wipe out the village.

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Sunday March 1st at 4:00 PM for an evening of Blood on the Clocktower, a social deduction game. Space is limited strictly to 12 attendees, so book soon! The cost is $15. Drinks and food available for purchase next door at Nonna’s.

To purchase tickets, please go to www.shophenrysbooks.com/blackhillsbloodontheclocktower

Join us for Frog & Toad Story Time presented by the BHSU Theater Department. Free and open to kids of all ages! The first 10 families to attend will have a free copy of Frog & Toad Are Friends to take home courtesy of Henry’s Books Foundation.

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Saturday, February 28 from noon to 2 pm for a book signing with author Heidi Hutchinson and discover your new favorite romance series!

About the author…

When she’s not writing about wild hearted women and hunky heroes, she’s watching Doctor Who or trying to find the perfect gluten free pizza crust for her pizza shaped celiac heart. She lives in the Black Hills with her alarmingly handsome husband, their fearless child, and a rather large (and spoiled) dog.

About the books…

Heidi Hutchinson writes slow burn rock star romances for contemporary readers who like humor with their hotties. She has both open and closed door series filled with relatable characters and swooney yumminess. She is known for series like Common Threads, Double Blind Study, and Soaring Bird, featuring stories with themes like friends-to-lovers, second chances, and workplace romance.

THE DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES is an exciting romance series about rock stars in recovery. The Double Blind Study band has already lived the rock and roll cliché. This is life after. Full of humor, heart, and slow burn romance. Each book can be read alone but it is best if read in order. Cliffhanger free. Closed Door)

THE SOARING BIRD SERIES follows a group of extreme sports enthusiasts as they navigate life and love living on the California coast. Slow burn romantic comedies that can be read individually, but best if read in order. Cliffhanger free. Varying levels of steam.

THE IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES is a slow burn unconventional romance that explores the connections of science and poetry. Occasionally intense moments of personal clarity and heartfelt confessions. Filled with touches of humor and real world obstacles. Cliffhanger free. Closed Door.

IN COLD MUD SERIES is a small series revolving around the politics and relationships of horse racing. Not a romance series. Definitely family drama.

NOTE: All of Heidi Hutchinson’s books take place in the Double Blind Study world. Each series can be read on their own but there are often crossover characters you may recognize.

Black Hills Reads Bookstop Lesson with CAT Scratch Studios

Saturday, February 21 at 11 AM

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Saturday, February 21 at 11 am for storytime with Cary Thrall of CAT Scratch Studios featuring the book “Lon Po Po” and an oil pastel art lesson for kids. This free event is open to the public at Henry's Books, 111 E. Hudson St., Spearfish.

About the book…

This Caldecott Medal-winning, classic retelling of Little Red Riding Hood is one of the most celebrated picture books of our time.

With characteristic flair and energy, award-winning artist Ed Young illustrates the ancient Chinese version of the favorite fairy tale Little Red Riding Hood. Young's vibrant, yet delicate, pastels and watercolors add drama to the deftly translated story.

Dr. Sarah Sue Burich shares her wisdom on using kitchen herbs and spices to create homemade remedies for health and wellness, suitable for beginners.

This program is part of the Spearfish Mini Read, a collaborative community literary project by The Henry’s Books Foundation in partnership with the Grace Balloch Memorial Library and The Matthews. All of the books and staffing have been provided for free to the community of Spearfish by The Henry’s Books Foundation through grassroots fundraising. All programming focuses on themes from the book “In the Distance” by Hernan Diaz.

While admission is free, donations to the foundation in the amount you would anticipate paying for a ticket are always welcome. Checks may be written to The Henry’s Books Foundation or online donations can be made through Black Hills Area Community Foundation.

We’d like to recognize our sponsors, with especially deep gratitude to The Friends of the Grace Balloch Memorial Library, without whom we would not have been able to provide this program. Our other generous sponsors include Cornerstone Auto Repair, Mitchell’s Barber Shop, Whole Child Wellness, Black Hills Psychology, Pioneer Bank and Trust, and Spearfish Economic Development Corporation.

Join us as Paul Higbee shares stories on Swedish immigrants and their experiences and adventures settling in the Black Hills of South Dakota in the late 1800’s.

This program is part of the Spearfish Mini Read, a collaborative community literary project by The Henry’s Books Foundation in partnership with the Grace Balloch Memorial Library and The Matthews. All of the books and staffing have been provided for free to the community of Spearfish by The Henry’s Books Foundation through grassroots fundraising. All programming focuses on themes from the book “In the Distance” by Hernan Diaz.

While admission is free, donations to the foundation in the amount you would anticipate paying for a ticket are always welcome. Checks may be written to The Henry’s Books Foundation or online donations can be made through Black Hills Area Community Foundation.

We’d like to recognize our sponsors, with especially deep gratitude to The Friends of the Grace Balloch Memorial Library, without whom we would not have been able to provide this program. Our other generous sponsors include Cornerstone Auto Repair, Mitchell’s Barber Shop, Whole Child Wellness, Black Hills Psychology, Pioneer Bank and Trust, and Spearfish Economic Development Corporation.

A CAPTIVATING GAME OF BLUFFING AND DEDUCTION

Blood on the Clocktower is a game of murder and mystery, lies and logic, deduction and deception for eight-to-thirteen courageous players and one devious storyteller.

A social game played in person, seated in a circle, each player receives either a ‘good’ or ‘evil’ token with their unique character on it. Good players share information to solve the mystery whilst evil players lie about who they are and what they know. The good team wins if they can piece together their knowledge, trust each other, and execute the demon. The evil team wins if the demon can sow distrust, evade detection, and wipe out the village.

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Sunday February 1st at 4:00 PM for an evening of Blood on the Clocktower, a social deduction game. Space is limited strictly to 12 attendees, so book soon! The cost is $15. Drinks and food available for purchase next door at Nonna’s.

To purchase tickets, please go to www.shophenrysbooks.com/blackhillsbloodontheclocktower

A CAPTIVATING GAME OF BLUFFING AND DEDUCTION

Blood on the Clocktower is a game of murder and mystery, lies and logic, deduction and deception for eight-to-thirteen courageous players and one devious storyteller.

A social game played in person, seated in a circle, each player receives either a ‘good’ or ‘evil’ token with their unique character on it. Good players share information to solve the mystery whilst evil players lie about who they are and what they know. The good team wins if they can piece together their knowledge, trust each other, and execute the demon. The evil team wins if the demon can sow distrust, evade detection, and wipe out the village.

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Sunday January 4th at 4:00 PM for an evening of Blood on the Clocktower, a social deduction game. Space is limited strictly to 12 attendees, so book soon! The cost is $15. Drinks and food available for purchase next door at Nonna’s.

To purchase tickets, please go to www.shophenrysbooks.com/blackhillsbloodontheclocktower

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish for a very special Christmas event with Author Sean Covel! Covel will share his Christmas book, “Marlon McDoogle’s Magical Night” on Saturday December 13 at 11 AM. This event is suitable for kids of all ages! Books will be available for signing and purchase.

About the Book: 

Marlon McDoogle's Magical Night is a world-class Christmas adventure about a young boy finding his identity, and stepping into his place in the world. On the night of his 12th Christmas Eve, Marlon McDoogle waits for his grandpa, Angus, to “give him a gift he’ll never forget.” Marlon soon finds himself part of a secret Christmas Eve team that helps Santa deliver presents on a train while Santa's reindeer fill up on the magical hay that lets them fly. When Marlon throws a handful of hay into the boiler of the train, he unleashes a magic never before seen and finds himself flying the train high above the mountains. With quick thinking and incredible bravery, Marlon is able to get the flying train under control. Marlon saves the night, saves Christmas, and forever becomes The Boy Who Flies Trains. Marlon learns lessons of appreciating family, being true to your heart and the real spirit of Christmas along the way. Inspired by the actual Black Hills Central Railroad in Hill City, SD. The 1880's Train (as it's known) is the oldest continuously operating tour railroad in the nation.

About the Author:

Sean Covel is a Los Angeles-based Film and Television Producer who grew up in the Black Hills of South Dakota.  Covel’s credits include; 

Beneath for Paramount Pictures, The 12 Dogs of Christmas directed by Academy Award Winner, Keith Merrill, and the iconic independent film, Napoleon Dynamite.  Together, Covel’s films have won multiple awards, generated over one-quarter-billion dollars in revenue internationally and gotten nerds prom dates across the globe.  He very much wishes that would’ve been the case when he was in high school.  

Covel travels the globe on various film shoots, but maintains close ties to his small-town midwestern roots.  In 2015 he founded The 12 Days of Pizza charitable program, which supplies food insecure families with elementary school children consistent meals across the Christmas break. In its first year, the program provided 144 meals to Black Hills area families. Within the first 3 years the program grew to provide over 12,000 meals. 

Additionally, Covel’s new children’s book; Porter the Hoarder and the Ransacked Room has been developed into an interactive reading initiative for elementary aged kids. 

With the help of the United Way, Black Hills Reads, and Black Hills Special Services, over 60,000 copies of the book will be given free of charge to 1st grade students, teachers and libraries across South Dakota. The books are accompanied by a reading program designed to create parent engagement at home, and boost grade level reading successes.  

Covel holds an undergraduate degree in Broadcast Management and Acting from the University of Nebraska at Kearney, and a Masters of Fine Arts from the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts, where he guest lectures each spring.   Covel enjoys traveling, keynote speaking, and lecturing at universities and film festivals internationally, but he hangs his nunchucks in Deadwood, SD.

A CAPTIVATING GAME OF BLUFFING AND DEDUCTION

Blood on the Clocktower is a game of murder and mystery, lies and logic, deduction and deception for eight-to-thirteen courageous players and one devious storyteller.

A social game played in person, seated in a circle, each player receives either a ‘good’ or ‘evil’ token with their unique character on it. Good players share information to solve the mystery whilst evil players lie about who they are and what they know. The good team wins if they can piece together their knowledge, trust each other, and execute the demon. The evil team wins if the demon can sow distrust, evade detection, and wipe out the village.

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Sunday December 7th at 4:00 PM for an evening of Blood on the Clocktower, a social deduction game. Space is limited strictly to 12 attendees, so book soon! The cost is $15. Drinks and food available for purchase next door at Nonna’s.

To purchase tickets, please go to www.shophenrysbooks.com/blackhillsbloodontheclocktower

Black Hills Reads Bookstop Lesson with CAT Scratch Studios

Saturday, December 6, 2-3 pm

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Saturday, December 6 at 2 pm for a Black Hills Reads Bookstop Lesson with CAT Scratch Studios!

Early learners, ages one year to 4+ and their caregivers are encouraged to attend this free event. Lead educator Cary Thrall will offer an interactive read-aloud of local South Dakota and Lakota author Donald Montileaux’s book “Muskrat and Skunk.” Following the reading, a rich learning activity will be shared with children. Adults are encouraged to assist. Children will receive their own copy of the book to keep.

About the book…

THUMP! BOOM! BAM!

Animals stop and listen. A new sound is in the forest. The beat vibrates through the trees and across the meadows. What is it? Where is it coming from?

Muskrat and Skunk thump on a hollow logBOOM! BOOM! BOOM! Birds begin to dance. Buffalo and Antelope join in. There is a rustle in the bushes; a large shape emerges. The animals scatter. Muskrat and Skunk drum on.

The story of the drum connects the instrument's sound to the heartbeat of Mother Eartha beat inside all of us. For the Lakota people, the drum is more than something to be played. Its rhythm is felt, and it is central to many ceremonies.

Donald F. Montileaux retells the origins of the drum, using traditional stories that Lakota people still tell today. His colorful images breathe life into Muskrat and Skunk, enhancing our understanding of the Lakota culture.

Book Signing with Lisa Fahey

Saturday, December 6, noon - 2 pm

Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Saturday, December 6 from noon to 2 pm for a book signing with local author Lisa Fahey and discover her newest title, “You Are Loved,” a four-week bible study for teens.

About the author…

Lisa Fahey is an author, speaker, spiritual direction coach, and publisher with over thirty years of experience working with youth, adults, and women in the Church. Her passion for inspiring and empowering others has guided her to create impactful Bible studies, courses, and personal coaching that support individuals in their journey with God.

About the Book…

You Are Loved is a four-week Bible Study for teens designed to help teens not just hear about God’s love—but truly experience it, live it, and walk confidently in it. With honest reflections, powerful Scripture, real-life stories, and space to journal and connect, this book will meet you right where you are.

Each week dives into a different part of the journey:
• Week 1: Overlooked – You are seen, known, and never forgotten.
• Week 2: Everlasting Love – God’s love has no limits or expiration date.
• Week 3: Mirror, Mirror on the Wall – Learning to love yourself as God does.
• Week 4: Live Out Love – Taking that love into your world.

Whether you’re doing this study on your own, with a friend, or in a small group, this book is for every teen who’s ever wondered: “Am I enough? Am I truly loved?” Yes. A million times, yes! And this study will show you just how much.