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Sailboat with whale tale on book cover of A Marriage at Sea: A True Story of Love, Obsession, and Shipwreck by Sophie Elmhirst

Register 14 Seats Remaining

Nonfiction Readers' Club

A Marriage at Sea by Sophie Elmhirst

2026-08-13 19:00:00 2026-08-13 20:00:00 America/Chicago Nonfiction Readers' Club Join other nonfiction enthusiasts for engaging discussions about history, science, memoirs and everything in between! Wood Dale Public Library - Small Meeting Room

Thursday, August 13
7:00pm - 8:00pm

Add to Calendar 2026-08-13 19:00:00 2026-08-13 20:00:00 America/Chicago Nonfiction Readers' Club Join other nonfiction enthusiasts for engaging discussions about history, science, memoirs and everything in between! Wood Dale Public Library - Small Meeting Room

Wood Dale Public Library

Small Meeting Room

Join other nonfiction enthusiasts for engaging discussions about history, science, memoirs and everything in between!

A Marriage at Sea: A True Story of Love, Obsession, and Shipwreck by Sophie Elmhirst 

A NEW YORK TIMES TOP 10 BOOK OF 2025 
 
Maurice and Maralyn make an odd couple. They dream of running away from it all, quitting their jobs, selling their house, buying a boat, and sailing away... 
 
In June 1972, Maurice and Maralyn set sail. For nearly a year all went well, until deep in the Pacific, a breaching whale knocked a hole in their boat and it sank beneath the waves. 
 
What ensues is a jaw-dropping fight to survive in the wild ocean, with little hope of rescue. Alone together for months in a tiny rubber raft, starving and exhausted, Maurice and Maralyn have to find not only ways to stay alive but ways to get along. 

Print copies are available at the Library. eBooks and eAudiobooks are available on Libby. 

AGE GROUP: | Seniors | Adults |

EVENT TYPE: | Book Clubs and Author Visits |

TAGS: | Synchronous | Adults |

Wood Dale Public Library
contact@wooddalelibrary.org
Phone: 630-766-6762
Hours
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Mon, Jul 13 10:00AM to 9:00PM
Tue, Jul 14 10:00AM to 9:00PM
Wed, Jul 15 10:00AM to 9:00PM
Thu, Jul 16 10:00AM to 9:00PM
Fri, Jul 17 10:00AM to 5:00PM
Sat, Jul 18 10:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, Jul 19 Closed
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About the branch

Reach. Explore. Achieve. Dream. 

Mission: All library district residents will have access to library materials and programs to encourage literacy and the joy of reading; to promote lifelong learning; and to experience a sense of community in a welcoming environment.

Upcoming events

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State Senator Lewis & State Rep. Sanalitro I-CASH Event
Tue, Jul 14, 10:00am - 3:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room
State Senator Seth Lewis & State Rep. Jennifer Sanalitro host the Illinois State Treasurer's Office to help residents locate unclaimed property.
Adventures in Art!
Tue, Jul 14, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Join us on an adventure in art! Use your imagination and creativity to explore art together and create a piece of art to display at home.
This event is full
Polish Storytime
Tue, Jul 14, 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Enjoy this fun storytime in the Polish language, then stay and play at the Library.
Smart Shopper
Tue, Jul 14, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room
Learn to shop confidently by balancing needs and budgets, comparing prices, spotting scams, maximizing deals, and making ethical, sustainable choices.
Toddler Time
Wed, Jul 15, 10:30am - 11:00am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Have fun in this interactive pre-reader storytime with books, songs, and activities that encourage toddlers to develop language and social skills.
Loom Knitting
Wed, Jul 15, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Learn to make a scarf or a hat, work on your existing projects, or start something new.
This event is full
Chair Yoga and Tai Chi
Wed, Jul 15, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room
Move, think, flow, and relax with stretching, brain games, and tai chi. Stand or stay comfy in your chair; all mobility levels are welcome.
Ami-Adorables
Wed, Jul 15, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Keep working on your stuffies! We’ll keep working step-by-step on our amigurumi octopus and cat. You must have attended the sessions in June.
This event is full
Teen Dungeons & Dragons
Wed, Jul 15, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Let’s play Dungeons & Dragons! Join a campaign with others and learn how to play the game.
Monthly Board of Library Trustees Meeting
Wed, Jul 15, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Small Meeting Room
Regular Board Meeting of the Board of Library Trustees of the Wood Dale Public Library District.
Roar and Explore
Thu, Jul 16, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Discover stories and games that blend fun with learning! After the stories, explore games and puzzles with your new friends.
This event is full
Sewing 101 for Teens
Thu, Jul 16, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Learn the basics of how to sew by hand. Work on an existing project or start something new.
Family Entertainment Night - Magic of Zack Percell
Thu, Jul 16, 6:30pm - 7:15pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Enjoy an unforgettable night full of magic, tricks, and family fun!
Nonfiction Readers' Club - A Kingdom Strange by James Horn
Thu, Jul 16, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Small Meeting Room
Join other nonfiction enthusiasts for engaging discussions about history, science, memoirs and everything in between!
Kids' Flicks
Fri, Jul 17, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room
Get out of the heat with a cool, refreshing movie at the Library. Attendees get to vote on the movie they want to watch. Light refreshments provided.
Randall Oaks Zoo
Fri, Jul 17, 2:00pm - 2:45pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
We all know Batman, Wonder Woman, and Spider-Man. But do you know that many animals have superpowers as well? Learn about the amazing things that animals can do!
Midsummer Mardi Gras Murder - Mystery Game
Fri, Jul 17, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room ,Small Meeting Room
Imagine you've been invited to a Mardi Gras party hosted by the governor of Louisiana—which suddenly turns into a murder mystery! Now you must work together with other party guests to find the killer.
STEAM Saturday
Sat, Jul 18, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Come and play with STEAM! Join us for this open play with all things STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) related. There will be something for everyone.
Take & Make: Red, White & Blue Yarn Table Mat
Mon, Jul 20, All day
Wood Dale Public Library - Library
Create a beautiful yarn table mat to display at this year’s summer cookouts. Pick up your supplies, then follow along with the instructions provided.
Baby Time
Mon, Jul 20, 10:30am - 11:00am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
This interactive program includes rhymes, songs, and games. Start with 20 minutes of guided pre-reader activities, followed by 10 minutes of play and socialization for both you and baby.
STEAM Tots
Mon, Jul 20, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Learn and play with STEAM! Each session explores different topics that relate to science, technology, engineering, art, or math, geared toward a younger audience.
Animal Lovers’ Storytime: Frogs & Toads - Session 1
Mon, Jul 20, 2:00pm - 2:25pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Stories come alive as our storyteller shares a tale and introduces live animals for an exciting meet and greet! Please choose one time slot per session.
This event is full
Animal Lovers’ Storytime: Frogs & Toads - Session 2
Mon, Jul 20, 2:30pm - 3:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Stories come alive as our storyteller shares a tale and introduces live animals for an exciting meet and greet! Please choose one time slot per session.
This event is full
Wood Carving Meetup
Mon, Jul 20, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Drop in and discover a new hobby with the North Suburban Carvers! Join the learning and carving session—no experience needed.
Book Club Express - Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
Mon, Jul 20, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Target Starbucks, 401 W Irving Park Rd.
Meets at the Target Starbucks in Wood Dale. Chat about popular books with this informal book club.
Wild About Animals!
Tue, Jul 21, 2:00pm - 2:45pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Do you love learning about animals? Join Animal Quest for this fun show featuring different creatures!
Family Arts & Crafts Night
Tue, Jul 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Make some creative crafts as a family! You are welcome to stay as long or as little as you would like.
Toddler Time
Wed, Jul 22, 10:30am - 11:00am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Have fun in this interactive pre-reader storytime with books, songs, and activities that encourage toddlers to develop language and social skills.
Loom Knitting
Wed, Jul 22, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Learn to make a scarf or a hat, work on your existing projects, or start something new.
Ami-Adorables
Wed, Jul 22, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Keep working on your stuffies! We’ll keep working step-by-step on our amigurumi octopus and cat. You must have attended the sessions in June.
This event is full
Cancelled
Teen Dungeons & Dragons
Wed, Jul 22, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library
Let’s play Dungeons & Dragons! Join a campaign with others and learn how to play the game.
Roar and Explore
Thu, Jul 23, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Discover stories and games that blend fun with learning! After the stories, explore games and puzzles with your new friends.
This event is full
Sewing 101 for Teens
Thu, Jul 23, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Learn the basics of how to sew by hand. Work on an existing project or start something new.
Family Entertainment Night - Wings and Talons
Thu, Jul 23, 6:30pm - 7:15pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Learn about raptors, their characteristics, how they adapt, and the impact they have on the environment. Plus, see live raptors in action!
Summer Stories: 100 Years of Route 66
Thu, Jul 23, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room
The GreenMan Theatre Storytellers celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Route 66 by sharing fun and interesting stories.
Animal Gem Painting
Fri, Jul 24, 1:00pm - 4:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Choose a design and grab your gems to create a glittering masterpiece. Once finished, take your framed piece home to display.
Monthly Movie Showing: True Grit (1969)
Fri, Jul 24, 2:00pm - 4:15pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room
A U.S. Marshal and Texas Ranger help a teen seek vengeance by tracking down her father’s murderer in the old American West.
Early Childhood Extravaganza
Sat, Jul 25, 11:00am - 2:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1 & 2
Explore local community programs and resources available to support your early learners! For parents of children ages 0–5; children are welcome. No registration is required.
Yoga Adventure
Mon, Jul 27, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Join us for a yoga adventure! Experience a story through yoga poses, then play games and make a craft. Bring your own yoga mat/towel or use one of ours.
Animal Lovers’ Storytime: Insects - Session 1
Mon, Jul 27, 2:00pm - 2:25pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Stories come alive as our storyteller shares a tale and introduces live animals for an exciting meet and greet! Please choose one time slot per session.
This event is full
Animal Lovers’ Storytime: Insects - Session 2
Mon, Jul 27, 2:30pm - 3:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Stories come alive as our storyteller shares a tale and introduces live animals for an exciting meet and greet! Please choose one time slot per session.
Adventures in Art!
Tue, Jul 28, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Join us on an adventure in art! Use your imagination and creativity to explore art together and create a piece of art to display at home.
This event is full
Family Game Night
Tue, Jul 28, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Play a favorite game or learn a new one as a family! You are welcome to stay as long or as little as you would like.
Grilling with Chef Dave
Tue, Jul 28, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Outdoor Patio
Chef Dave Esau demonstrates grilling techniques and how to create delicious dishes. Recipes and samples will be provided.
This event is full
Toddler Time
Wed, Jul 29, 10:30am - 11:00am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Have fun in this interactive pre-reader storytime with books, songs, and activities that encourage toddlers to develop language and social skills.
This event is full
Loom Knitting
Wed, Jul 29, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Learn to make a scarf or a hat, work on your existing projects, or start something new.
This event is full
Ami-Adorables
Wed, Jul 29, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Keep working on your stuffies! We’ll keep working step-by-step on our amigurumi octopus and cat. You must have attended the sessions in June.
This event is full
Teen Dungeons & Dragons
Wed, Jul 29, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Let’s play Dungeons & Dragons! Join a campaign with others and learn how to play the game.
Roar and Explore
Thu, Jul 30, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Discover stories and games that blend fun with learning! After the stories, explore games and puzzles with your new friends.
This event is full
Tie-Dye Party!
Thu, Jul 30, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2,Outdoor Patio
Celebrate summer by joining us for a tie-dye event! Please bring two items of clothing that are at least 80% cotton. Gloves, dye, and rubber bands will be provided.
Family Entertainment Night - Cirque du Canine
Thu, Jul 30, 6:30pm - 7:15pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Experience Jared the Juggler’s captivating one-man circus show and his furry companion’s amazing tricks.
Using AI Wisely: Tips for Everyday Decisions
Thu, Jul 30, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room
This session explores what AI is (and isn’t) good at, with real-life examples to help you make informed, responsible choices about when to use it and when to avoid it.
Book Explorers: Home is Calling
Fri, Jul 31, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1 & 2
Join us for a reading of Home is Calling: The Journey of the Monarch Butterfly, then enjoy a fun activity based on the book.
VR Games
Fri, Jul 31, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Ready, set, play! Strap in and play games using our Meta Quest VR headsets.
Pop-Up Movie: Jurassic Park (1993)
Fri, Jul 31, 2:00pm - 4:15pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room
Join us for a special showing of Jurassic Park starring Sam Neill in one of his most iconic roles.
St. Sophia’s Forgotten Felines Adoption Event
Sat, Aug 01, 10:30am - 3:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room ,Small Meeting Room
Meet the cute kittens and cats from St. Sophia’s Forgotten Felines! Ask about the adoption process or do a same-day adoption. No registration required.
STEAM Saturday
Sat, Aug 01, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Come and play with STEAM! Join us for this open play with all things STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) related. There will be something for everyone.
Baby Time
Mon, Aug 03, 10:30am - 11:00am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
This interactive program includes rhymes, songs, and games. Start with 20 minutes of guided pre-reader activities, followed by 10 minutes of play and socialization for both you and baby.
STEAM Tots
Mon, Aug 03, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Learn and play with STEAM! Each session explores different topics that relate to science, technology, engineering, art, or math, geared toward a younger audience.
This event is full
Wood Carving Meetup
Mon, Aug 03, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Drop in and discover a new hobby with the North Suburban Carvers! Join the learning and carving session—no experience needed.
Science Explorers: Do experiments really work?
Tue, Aug 04, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Let's test some experiments to see if they really work!
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Office Hours
Wed, Aug 05, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Lobby
Meet with Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s staff! Stop by with any questions you may have about federal topics including social security, veterans’ affairs, immigration, and taxes.
Loom Knitting
Wed, Aug 05, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Learn to make a scarf or a hat, work on your existing projects, or start something new.
Ami-Adorables
Wed, Aug 05, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Keep working on your stuffies! We’ll keep working step-by-step on our amigurumi octopus and cat. You must have attended the sessions in June.
This event is full
Teen Dungeons & Dragons
Wed, Aug 05, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Let’s play Dungeons & Dragons! Join a campaign with others and learn how to play the game.
Countdown to Kindergarten
Thu, Aug 06, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Kindergarten is almost here! Join us for stories, songs, and fun to support your child’s transition to kindergarten. Meet new friends and make a craft together. The countdown starts now!
Water Balloon Math
Thu, Aug 06, 3:00pm - 3:45pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2,Outdoor Patio
Practice your math skills in a fun way… with water balloons! Please wear clothes that you don’t mind getting wet.
Teen Pajama Party!
Thu, Aug 06, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Enjoy a movie, snacks, and crafts with your friends. Pajamas are optional but encouraged!
Mathnasium of Wood Dale - Tabling Event
Fri, Aug 07, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Lobby
Stop by and learn about the services offered by Mathnasium! Learn about opportunities to keep math skills sharp this summer and discover ways to help students prepare for the upcoming school year.
Reading Goal Foam Party!
Fri, Aug 07, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Outdoor Patio
Celebrate completing the Summer Reading Challenge with a phenomenal foam party! Readers who have logged 20 hours of reading will receive an invitation.
Reading Goal Foam Party!
Fri, Aug 07, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Outdoor Patio
Celebrate completing the Summer Reading Challenge with a phenomenal foam party! Readers who have logged 20 hours of reading will receive an invitation.
Reading Goal Foam Party!
Fri, Aug 07, 8:00pm - 9:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Outdoor Patio
Celebrate completing the Summer Reading Challenge with a phenomenal glow-in-the-dark foam party! Readers who have logged 20 hours of reading will receive an invitation.
Wearable Technology for Seniors
Sat, Aug 08, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room
Learn how wearable technology such as fitness trackers and smartwatches support daily life through reminders, activity tracking, health- and safety-related features, and smartphone connectivity.
Yoga Adventure
Mon, Aug 10, 11:00am - 11:45am
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Join us for a yoga adventure! Experience a story through yoga poses, then play games and make a craft. Bring your own yoga mat/towel or use one of ours.
Paper Magic: Découpage Lanterns
Mon, Aug 10, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Transform a plain white paper lantern into paper magic using paints, tissue paper, and your creativity!
Polish Storytime
Tue, Aug 11, 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 1
Enjoy this fun storytime in the Polish language, then stay and play at the Library.
Mystery Lovers' Book Club - A Cryptic Clue by Victoria Gilbert
Tue, Aug 11, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Barbara E. Dunn Meeting Room
We read all types of mysteries, from classic “whodunnits" to cozies and professional detective novels.
Craft-a-palooza!
Wed, Aug 12, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Unleash your creativity! We supply a wide range of craft materials, and you supply the ideas. Stay as little or as long as you’d like.
Teen Dungeons & Dragons
Wed, Aug 12, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Activity Room 2
Let’s play Dungeons & Dragons! Join a campaign with others and learn how to play the game.
Nonfiction Readers' Club - A Marriage at Sea by Sophie Elmhirst
Thu, Aug 13, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Wood Dale Public Library - Small Meeting Room
Join other nonfiction enthusiasts for engaging discussions about history, science, memoirs and everything in between!
See all events