WeeGee Reads x KAMU Pride: Salatun rakkauden historia

Welcome to kick off Pride Month with rainbow-themed literature! This June, WeeGee Reads is proud to host author duo Heidi Airaksinen and Tiina Tuppurainen. Both have written several books individually, and now they join forces for the non-fiction title Salatun rakkauden historia (The Hidden History of Love, in Finnish). The authors will be interviewed by literature scholar Rita Paqvalen.

Salatun rakkauden historia explores queer history from the late 19th century to the present. It presents stories that truly deserve to be heard—at last. The book shines a light on both everyday people and significant historical figures, from Fredrik Cygnaeus and Edith Södergran to Valentin Vaala and Tove Jansson.

Tiina Tuppurainen, an author and journalist, has written four queer novels and one non-fiction book. Her fifth novel, Jossain on aina San Fransisco will be published in autumn 2025. Heidi Airaksinen specializes in historical queer literature and is the author of two parts of the Laventelimurhat cosy crime trilogy.

Come alone or with a friend to enjoy literature and the unique architecture of the former print house on Thursday, June 5 from 5:30 to 7 PM. The event is free of charge and takes place at Restaurant Delicatessen at WeeGee. Delicious offers from the restaurant await all attendees!

The event is organized jointly by KAMU Espoo City Museum and Exhibition Centre WeeGee.

Schedule

5:30 PM – Heidi Airaksinen and Tiina Tuppurainen in conversation, interviewed by Rita Paqvalen

6:10 PM – Silent Book Club – reading themed books together

6:40 PM – Lightly facilitated discussion on the themes that emerged

What is Silent Book Club?

Silent Book Club is an event concept for book lovers who enjoy reading quietly—yet together. The idea is simple: gather in one place, open a book, and read for a set time. WeeGee Reads events are built around a broad theme, and we encourage you to bring a book that fits that theme. But that’s completely optional—you’re welcome to read whatever you like. After the reading session, we’ll have a relaxed discussion about what we’ve read.

Welcome!