The Haines Borough Public Library is kicking off its “Doorways to the Past, Gateways to the Future” project at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, with a reading and presentation by Juneau author Ishmael Hope.
Hope is a storyteller, poet, actor and playwright of Tlingit and Inupiaq heritage. He is also a writer and creative contributor for the 2014 videogame “Never Alone” in which the user plays as an Inupiat girl named Nuna and her arctic fox.
The game’s story is based on Inupiaq folklore and incorporates indigenous art, culture and stories.
“Never Alone,” which is available on most platforms, represents a breakthrough in the world of gaming, which rarely, if ever, focuses on Native stories or characters.
“It’s unprecedented and amazing,” said library education and cultural coordinator Jessie Morgan.
Hope will also be reading from his new collection of poetry, “Courtesans of Flounder Hill.”
Tlingit dancers will also perform at the event.