Meet Meg Donohue, Author of The Memory Gardener

San Mateo County Libraries is delighted to welcome bestselling author Meg Donohue for a special afternoon celebrating her upcoming novel The Memory Gardener—a blooming tale of memory, magic and heart. Join us on Thursday, March 19, from 4:00-6:00 PM at the Jennings Pavilion in Holbrook Palmer Park, where Meg will read from her book, sign copies and share insights into the enchanting world she's created. This event is part of the Friends of the Atherton Library Speaker Series.

We're thrilled to share that this event will be moderated by Kimberly Ford, opens a new window, a celebrated local author and seasoned literary lecturer known for her bestselling book Hump: True Tales of Sex After Kids and her widely respected work as a teacher and editor. She brings a thoughtful, engaging approach to conversations about book and storytelling. 

Please register in advance to secure your spot at this upcoming author talk!

The Memory Gardener

Step Into a Garden Where Memories Blossom

The Memory Gardener is infused with tenderness, mystery and a touch of magic. Donohue—author of Dog Crazy, All the Summer Girls and How to Eat a Cupcake—is a USA Today bestselling writer whose novels resonate with readers around the world.

In this new story, flowers hold memories, healing grows in unexpected places and forgotten secrets bloom anew. Fans of magical realism and emotionally rich contemporary fiction will find much to savor.

An Author Inspired by the Bay Area

Meg Donohue has built a vibrant literary life on the West Coast, now calling San Francisco home with her husband, three daughters and their dog. Her academic path—earning a BA from Dartmouth College and an MFA from Columbia University—helped shape her signature blend of lyricism and emotional depth. 

Her novels, translated into multiple languages including French, German, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish and Turkish, reflect both her East Coast beginnings and her deep connection to the Bay Area's creative energy. As she continues working on her next novel, Meg remains a beloved voice in contemporary fiction, weaving stories filled with place, heart and a whisper of enchantment. 

A Literary Afternoon You Won't Want to Miss

This special event promises warmth, community and a beautifully enriching conversation. We hope you'll join us as we explore the worlds these two remarkable voices—Meg Donohue and Kimberly Ford—bring to life.

Reserve your seat today!