John Christgau, author of “Kokomo Joe, The Story of the First Japanese American Jockey in the United States,” will host a discussion and book signing from 2-3 p.m., April 5 at the White River Valley Museum.

In Kokomo Joe, Christgau tells the story of Yoshio “Kokomo Joe” Kobuki, a White River Valley native who rose from lowly stable boy to reigning star at California fairs and in the bush leagues. He describes how, at the height of the jockey’s fame, even his flight into the Sonora Desert could not protect him from the government’s espionage and sabotage dragnet. And finally he recounts how, after three years of internment, Kokomo Joe tried to reclaim his racing success, only to fall victim to still-rampant racism, a career-ending injury and cancer.

Copies of Kokomo Joe will be available for purchase and author signing.

About the White River Valley Museum

The White River Valley Museum is a partnership with the City of Auburn and combines history and culture to create an exciting and educational experience for visitors. Museum collections focus on Puget Sound history, Northwest Indian culture, Japanese immigration and the Northern Pacific Railroad.

The White River Valley Museum is the best local history museum in the state according to the 2007 Washington State Visitors Guide.

The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. and is located at 918 H St. S.E. in Auburn. Regular admission is $2 adults, $1 seniors and children, and free on Wednesdays. Call 253-288-7433 for event information or visit www.wrvmuseum.org.