Hilda Demuth-Lutze of Jackson Township will celebrate the release of her latest novel, “Kingdom of the Birds,” with a launch party on Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran School in Valparaiso.

The gathering is free and open to the public, and the entertainment will include Renaissance musicians and swordfighters.

Books will be available for $16 cash or check. The Immanuel Food Pantry will receive $5 for each book sold at this event.

“Kingdom of the Birds” is a historical novel set in 16th century Germany. A village boy disguised as a page, 14-year-old Seppel, must keep the secret of a mysterious knight’s identity or the household of the Wartburg Castle will risk punishment by church and state.

Targeted for middle readers and young adults, the book is published by Kirk House Publishers of Minneapolis. More information on the book and the author can be found at the website kingdomofthebirds.wordpress.com

Posted 3/4/2010