Chicago, IL—The Zhou B Art Center in Bridgeport will host a pre- release party for Chicago author Mary A. Osborne’s new novel, Alchemy’s Daughter (Lake Street Press, May 2015), on Friday, April 17, 2015 from 6 – 9 p.m. The launch will take place in conjunction with the Center’s “Third Fridays” exhibition and open studios event.

Amid the current fears surrounding “superbugs” and the Ebola virus, Ms. Osborne, who is a registered nurse, has written a tale that offers a historical perspective on midwifery and the Great Plague of 1348.
Ms. Osborne says, “Europe’s 14th century plague is a reminder of the havoc pandemics can create. As our current supply of antibiotics is becoming more and more ineffective, we need to carefully consider our preparedness to cope with infectious disease.”

In Ms. Osborne’s novel, which appeals equally to adults and young adults, seventeen-year-old Santina is determined to follow in the footsteps of the village midwife, who is a suspected witch. The book won the Literary Classics Youth Media Competition gold award.

Both the launch party and the Zhou B. Art Center’s “Third Fridays”—in which visitors can view current exhibitions and meet working artists in their studios—are free and open to the public. The launch party will be located on the first floor of the Art Center at 1029 W. 35th St in Chicago, IL.

Acclaim for Alchemy’s Daughter:

Kirkus Reviews:
“Brimming with details of life in Italy during the plague of 1348, this well-researched story incorporates historical information about medieval alchemy, midwifery, and the conflict between science and superstition, providing a rich context and arresting contrast for Santina’s thoroughly modern attitudes.”

Booklist:
“…the historical time period is well researched, and Santina is a smart, capable heroine whose desire for both knowledge and love will feel familiar to many modern readers.”

Book details:
Ordering Information:
Available wholesale from Partners Book Distributing at 800-336-3137
Email orders to orders@partners-east.com http://www.Partners-east.com
Also available from Baker & Taylor, Ingram, any bookstore or online retailer.

About the Author:

Mary A. Osborne is also the author of the award-winning Nonna’s Book of Mysteries. A graduate of Rush University and Knox College, Ms. Osborne is a registered nurse and holds degrees in chemistry and nursing. She has been featured on the Art Next Level podcast with Sergio Gomez among other radio shows. Her freelance work has appeared in publications including Newcity, Examiner.com, and Journey of Dreams, a book about the Zhou B Art Center. Ms. Osborne lives in Chicago. To learn more about the author, visit MaryAOsborne.com.