Join us for an evening in the historic cottage garden as Jeff Falconer presents a live reading of Jack London’s short story “The Water Baby”.
Published in London’s Hawaiian story collection On the Makaloa Mat, “The Water Baby” is a reflective tale that explores childhood, imagination, and humanity’s connection to the natural world. Set against a backdrop of water and wonder, the story offers a glimpse into a lesser-known side of London’s writing.
Guests are invited to gather beside the garden pond and experience the story as it was meant to be shared—through the spoken word. Following the reading, participants will have an opportunity to discuss the story’s themes and place within Jack London’s body of work.
This intimate program is part of our year-long celebration of Jack London’s 150th birthday and offers a unique chance to engage with one of his lesser-known short stories.
Interested in reading along? Copies of On the Makaloa Mat, the collection containing Jack London’s short story “The Water Baby,” are available for purchase before the event. Please click here or visit the park’s Museum Bookstore.
Image – George Wharton James and Jack London, 1906, Jack London Photographs and Negatives, The Huntington Digital Library, The Huntington Library, San Marino, California
WHEN: Saturday, July 11, 2026 (6:00 pm – 7:00 pm)
WHERE: Jack London State Historic Park
Please park in the Ranch lot on the right as you enter the park. A golf cart will be available to shuttle participants to and from the cottage.
ADMISSION: $15
The park entrance fee is waived for this event.
Price: $15.00