During Black History Month, Chicago-Born Author Chris J. Parker Releases Debut Memoir ‘Building Bridges’ at Lange’s

Chicago, IL — Chicago-born author Chris J. Parker will celebrate the release of his debut memoir, Building Bridges: From Chicago’s South Side to the Boardroom, with a special reading and musical performance on Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 4:00–6:00 PM at Lange’s on the Southport Corridor.

The event will feature Parker reading excerpts from the book alongside live music by his brother, pianist Bradley Parker-Sparrow, and acclaimed Chicago vocalist Joanie Pallatto. There is no cover charge.

Officially released on February 20, 2026, during Black History Month, Building Bridges is a deeply personal, Chicago-rooted memoir that explores identity, family, and social mobility through lived experience. Rather than offering theory or self-help, the book traces Parker’s journey growing up on Chicago’s South Side and learning how to move between neighborhoods, classrooms, startups, and corporate boardrooms.

Parker’s story speaks to readers navigating multiple worlds — socially, professionally, and culturally — and reflects on the invisible boundaries many learn to cross over a lifetime.

Event Details:
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 4:00–6:00 PM
Lange’s
3500 N. Southport Ave., Chicago, IL 60657
No Cover Charge

Building Bridges is available in paperback and eBook formats through major online retailers. More information about the book and upcoming events can be found at https://chrisjparker.com.

Media Contact:
Chris J. Parker
Author, Building Bridges – A Memoir
https://chrisjparker.com