Book Launch – North America’s Galapagos: The Historic Channel Islands Biological Survey

The Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC) are proud to celebrate the launch of Corinne Heyning Laverty’s new book, North America’s Galapagos: The Historic Channel Islands Biological Survey, at the Natural History Museum (NHM) in Exposition Park. This narrative nonfiction book recounts the never before told adventures and ambitions of a group of researchers, naturalists, and explorers who came together in the late 1930s to embark upon a series of unprecedented expeditions. Their mission: to piece together the human history and biological evolution of California’s eight Channel Islands.

The evening will begin with a reception during which time visitors are encouraged to engage with curatorial staff about specimens on display that were collected during the expeditions. For the main program, author Corinne Heyning Laverty will introduce us to North America’s Galápagos Islands through a stunning slide presentation, followed by a conversation with NHMLAC President, Dr. Lori Bettison-Varga. Together they will discuss the ongoing relevance of these historic expeditions, the researchers involved, and the significance of the scientific process that continues to build upon the work of early explorers and which today is rewriting archaeological textbooks.

Their conversation will be followed by a Q&A and book signing. Books are currently available for pre-order and will be available for purchase the night of the program.

https://www.channelislandscalifornia.com/

SCHEDULE
6 pm: Doors open – Reception (special collections on display)
7 pm: Slide presentation followed by conversation, Q&A and book signing
9 pm: Program concludes