Join Wichita historical fiction author Jillian Forsberg as she delves into the fascinating history of Clara the Indian rhino, the first animal celebrity who dazzled 18th century Europe. Forsberg will share inspiration and art that inspired her novel, "The Rhino Keeper," as well as offer insight into the 1700s and how Clara made it around the Horn of Africa on a perilous sea voyage and toured Europe for 18 years.

This is a hybrid program: Join us in person at Newton Public Library, 223 E. 7th, Newton, KS, or click here to sign up for the Zoom Webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_11W8ewLkSJO5BEujtvQubw. The event will also be livestreamed on the NPL Facebook page.

About the Author:

Jillian holds a master’s degree in public history from Wichita State University and a bachelor’s degree in communication and history from McPherson College. Her research on little-known historical events led her to discover the true story behind her first novel.

Jillian's historical research has been published in academic journals, and she was the editor for Wichita State’s The Fairmount Folio. Her passions lie in the 18th century.

You can find Jillian gardening, browsing the closest antique mall, or reading every label at a museum. She'll most likely be wearing vintage dresses, except when she's at the zoo. Jillian owns a bridal store and has worked in bridal since 2007. She lives in Wichita with her husband, child, and pets.

Jillian’s second novel is written, and she's working on a third.