Member Highlight: Jack Wool

Jack putting on a Tanabata (Star Festival) puppet show at the Lanpher Memorial Library in Hyde Park, Vermont

How long have you been a member of the Japan Society of Boston?

I think this is my 3rd or 4th year of membership.

What drew you to JSB?

We retired to rural Vermont for its serenity and nature. We travel to Boston for family and culture. ( I am still a MFA member primarily for the Japan collection.) I was drawn by the remote/online activities, especially the pre-modern literature book club, and the local attendance to events when visiting Boston. I also, quite frankly, wanted to support JSB as a member for its mission.

How would you describe yourself and what you're passionate about?

I am a retired librarian who designed and implemented global electronic library systems. This previous work had me on assignment to Japan. (I strongly volunteered for those assignments in order to be able to visit Japan.) The root of my passion is a lifelong interest in the works of Miyazawa Kenji and that extended my interest into Japanese culture, history, arts and literature.

Jack doing kamishibai (a form of Japanese storytelling with pictures) theatre this past August at the Lanpher Memorial Library

Do you have a favorite event or program that you have participated in with JSB?

My favorite recurring activity is the "Between the Lines" book club, which has always been solidly in my reading interests. Second to that is probably the kamishibai event at the Boston Children’s museum.

What about JSB makes it so special from other groups within the Boston area?

The focus on Japanese culture makes JSB unique in the New England area.

What would you say to somebody who is considering joining JSB?

If you are interested in Japanese culture, history and its continued impact on the world, JSB, with its group of like-minded members is the place for you to explore and expand those interests.

The books from Jack's August kamishibai event

Thank you, Jack, for sharing with us!

Interested in becoming a JSB Member? Click here or reach out to info@japansocietyboston.org for more details.