Arts & Entertainment
Library Hosts Indigenous Author Nick Medina for Engaging Talk on Horror, Heritage, and Storytelling
Native American Heritage Month Honored at Orland Park Public Library
The Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S. Ravinia Ave., in partnership with the Tuesday Night Book Club, was honored to welcome author Nick Medina for an insightful and thought-provoking author talk on Tuesday, Nov. 11.
Born in Chicago and a proud member of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, Medina captivated the audience with a presentation that blended literary discussion, cultural history, and personal storytelling. Speaking on topics ranging from horror and the writing process to the social challenges faced by Indigenous communities, Medina offered attendees a glimpse into the creative and cultural forces that shape his work.
His talk was richly detailed, featuring historical timelines, pop culture references to the term “Indian Burial Ground,” and photos of his family. Medina also shared how his tribal roots and folklore, from his own heritage as well as myths from countries such as Brazil, inspire the monsters and mythologies that populate his fiction.
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Medina is the author of Sisters of the Lost Nation and Indian Burial Ground, both of which intertwine supernatural elements with Indigenous storytelling traditions. His works honor ancestral voices while exploring contemporary themes of identity, fear, and resilience.
Local independent bookseller Bookie’s was on-site to offer copies of Medina’s novels for purchase. Library patrons can also check out Indian Burial Ground at the Adult Services Desk on the library’s second floor.
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“Nick Medina’s visit and the Land Acknowledgment Ceremony reflect the library’s ongoing efforts to celebrate and uplift Native voices,” said Library Director Mary Adamowski. “We are proud to bring these meaningful cultural experiences to our community.”
This event is part of two nights the library is offering in November to honor the voices, history, and artistry of Indigenous peoples. The library will be holding a Land Acknowledgment Ceremony on Friday, Nov. 14, at 6 p.m., featuring Indigenous artists, musicians, performers, and cuisine. The library will, at that time, do a first reading of its new Land Acknowledgment.
