Barbara Kawakami, author of “Picture Bride Stories” (University of Hawaii Press, $39.99), will speak about the subject and sign copies of her book at the Hawaii Japanese Center in Hilo, 751 Kanoelehua Ave., from 2 to 3 p.m. on April 1.

Kawakami interviewed 16 picture brides for her book. During the evening’s program, filmed excerpts from some of the interviews will be shown. “Along with their voices, the legacies of these women endure in these pages,” said a Honolulu Star-Advertiser review of “Picture Bride Stories.” “It’s a book that stays with you.”

For more information, call 934-9611.

NEW BOOK RECOUNTS HAWAII HORSES

On Saturday, equine veterinarians Billy Bergin and his son, Brady Bergin, co-authors of “The Hawaiian Horse” (University of Hawaii Press, $42), will launch their history of the arrival, evolution and roles of horses in the islands with a series of appearances on Hawaii island:

>> 9 a.m. to noon, book signing at Parker Ranch Store, 67-1185 Mamalahoa Highway; 885-5669

>> 1 to 2:45 p.m., book signing at Basically Books, 160 Kamehameha Ave., Hilo; 961-0144

>> 3 to 4:30 p.m., talk at Lyman Museum, 276 Haili St., Hilo; 935-5021; $3 admission (free for museum members)

On March 29 from 10 a.m. to noon, the Bergins will appear at the Paniolo Heritage Center at Parker Ranch, 67-139 Pukalani Road, 854-1541.