Join fellow Natchitoches readers excited about our morning book club, Literary Lagniappe. August’s book is * Heartwood by Amity Gage with discussion guided by Marné Deranger. A lifelong reader, Marné works with authors and publishers, reviewing new releases and helping her followers find ideal books and audiobooks. She called this book a “heartfelt, character-driven story of adversity and survival with a focus on mothers and daughters.” Follow her as ReaderByTheWater on Instagram and Facebook. (*This is an affiliate link.)
LET US KNOW YOU’LL BE THERE BY CLICKING HERE TODAY — includes complimentary coffee, tea, and water, plus 20% off in-store shopping on our book club meeting day. Signing up also makes you eligible for a door prize worth $40: a National Parks Water Bottle with Waterproof Stickers!
IF YOU’D LIKE TO STAY FOR OUR THEMED LUNCH, CHOOSE “WITH LUNCH” — half sandwich of your choice, Wild Summer Berry Salad, Maine Blueberry Crumble, and tea or water.
Tuesday, August 19th, 2025
10:00 AM 12:00 PM
Natchitoches Picnic Company
Book Info:
Heartwood takes you on a journey as a search and rescue team race against time when an experienced hiker mysteriously disappears on the Appalachian Trail in Maine.
In the heart of the Maine woods, an experienced Appalachian Trail hiker goes missing. She is forty-two-year-old Valerie Gillis, who has vanished 200 miles from her final destination. Alone in the wilderness, Valerie pours her thoughts into fractured, poetic letters to her mother as she battles the elements and struggles to keep hoping.
At the heart of the investigation is Beverly, the determined Maine State Game Warden tasked with finding Valerie, who leads the search on the ground. Meanwhile, Lena, a seventy-six-year-old birdwatcher in a Connecticut retirement community, becomes an unexpected armchair detective. Roving between these compelling narratives, a puzzle emerges, intensifying the frantic search, as Valerie’s disappearance may not be accidental.
*Classes & Events Cancellation & No Show Policy
We understand that life happens and plans can change. To ensure the best experience for all guests and to respect the time and preparation required for each class, we kindly ask that you review our cancellation and no-show policy:
🔸 Cancellations
More than 72 hours before class: You may receive 100% credit towards a future class at Natchitoches Picnic Company, or transfer your ticket to another guest.
Less than 72 hours before class: You may receive 50% credit towards a future class at Natchitoches Picnic Company, or transfer your ticket to another guest.
Same-day cancellations are considered a no-show.
🔸 No Shows
If you do not attend your reserved class and have not contacted us in advance, your reservation will be forfeited, and no refund or credit will be issued.
🔸 Minimum Enrollment & Weather Cancellations
We reserve the right to cancel a class if minimum enrollment is not met or in the case of severe weather. In this case, you will receive 100% credit towards a future class at Natchitoches Picnic Company.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Our classes are carefully planned, and your reservation helps us create the best experience possible for all attendees.