Travelers and others interested in the history and culture of Japan's northern island, Hokkaido, have had few accessible, English-language resources available to them. Ann B. Irish's Hokkaido: A History of Ethnic Transition and Development on Japan's Northern Island (McFarland), provides a much-needed sourcebook on Hokkaido's history and culture, including information about the native Ainu people, ethnic Japanese exploration and settlement, the founding of its cities, related World War II and Cold War history, and more. Ann B. Irish, a retired teacher, and former Hokkaido resident now living on Vashon Island, share stories and highlights from her book here tonight.