THE BUZZ: MARCH 2026

BEYOND THE PAGE

Lake Forest Book Store and the History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff will host three authors for an evening of literary intrigue on Tuesday, March 31 at the history center. Moderated by David Sweet, the 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. conversation will showcase Malcolm Kempt’s Arctic thriller A Gift Before Dying, Ian McGuire’s Canadian wilderness tale White River Crossing, and Gene Wojciechowski’s golf-infused novel All Carry. The Wheaton-based sports writer joins UK author McGuire and Indiana’s Kempt for this rare joint appearance. Tickets are $35 and include book-inspired appetizers, wine, and beer. Books will also be available for purchase and signing. Space is limited; call 847-234-4420 to RSVP.

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COVER STORY

Art meets arm candy with Olympia Le-Tan’s hand-embroidered minaudières—the Parisian fashion house turning handbags into collectible masterpieces since 2009. Here’s the plot twist: these clutches are designed to look like books, transforming literary classics and cultural references into wearable art. Beloved by Reese Witherspoon and Natalie Portman, each limited-edition piece is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans. Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, the “Lady Luck” clutch has landed at Lillie Alexander Boutique—proof that North Shore tastemakers can judge a book by its cover, especially when it doubles as a statement accessory. lilliealexanderboutique.com