Shorewood Reads Presents: Behind the Smiles - Understanding Angelman Syndrome

Name: Shorewood Reads Presents: Behind the Smiles - Understanding Angelman Syndrome
Start: 2026-04-14T18:30:00-05:00
Location: Shorewood Public Library

Schedule

Tue, 14 Apr, 2026 at 06:30 pm

UTC-05:00

Location

Shorewood Public Library | Whitefish Bay, WI

Perhaps the most captivating character in Happiness Falls, Eugene Parkson has a rare genetic disorder known as Angelman Syndrome (AS), and, as his sister describes it, “he can’t talk, has motor difficulties, and…has an unusually happy demeanor with frequent smiles and laughter.” But as readers of Angie Kim’s thrilling page-turner know, Eugene is far more complex and intriguing.
Join us as we explore the mysteries and put a human face on a condition that affects 1 in 15,000 people. A brief video introduction will be followed by a moderated (and open) conversation with Amanda Moore of the Angelman Syndrome Foundation and local families experiencing the challenges and triumphs of AS. Learn about the latest research, complexities of caregiving, unique communication barriers, but also the inspiration and the beauty that individuals with AS provide.
This program is part of Shorewood Reads, a "one book, one community initiative," with six weeks of programs, discussions, and shared stories, culminating in a day of events with the author on Thursday, April 23. This year's book is Happiness Falls by Angie Kim.