Several engaging literary events are scheduled for the week of November 9 in Minnesota, featuring a diverse lineup of authors and activities. From discussions and readings to immersive theatrical performances, there is something for every book lover. Here are the highlights:
Notable Author Events
Hanif Abdurraqib, a recipient of the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship and the National Book Critics Award, will present his latest work, “There’s Always This Year: On Baseball and Ascension,” at the University of Minnesota. This event is part of the Walter Nathan Library Initiatives series and is set for 7 p.m. on Monday at the Coffman Union Theater, located at 300 Washington Ave. S.E., Minneapolis. The event is free with prior registration.
On Thursday at 7 p.m., Nicole Baart will discuss her new book, “Where He Left Me,” in conversation with fellow author William Kent Krueger. This event will take place at Magers & Quinn, situated at 3038 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis.
Interactive and Theatrical Experiences
A theatrical spectacle will unfold on Tuesday at 6 p.m. as authors Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris present “The First Cat in Space and the Baby Pirate’s Revenge.” This event, hosted by Red Balloon Bookshop, promises an immersive experience with live music and dramatic performances, celebrating the latest addition to their popular graphic novel series. The venue for this event is St. Catherine University, located at 2004 Randolph Ave., St. Paul.
Additionally, a release party for the 14th book in Dav Pilkey’s “Dog Man” series, titled “Dog Man: Big Jim Believes!,” will take place on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Red Balloon Bookshop, 891 Grand Ave., St. Paul.
On Saturday at 11 a.m., Peg Guilfoyle will read from her work, “An Eye for Joy: Noticing the Good World Everywhere,” at Storyline Books, located at Union Depot, 214 E. Fourth St., St. Paul.
Emerging Voices and Performances
Trung Le Nguyen will introduce his book, “Angelica & the Bear Prince,” which explores themes of burnout and unexpected romance, on Monday at 6 p.m. at Next Chapter Booksellers, 38 S. Snelling Ave., St. Paul.
Also, Lindsay Stuart Hill will launch her poetry collection “World of Dew” on Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the same venue, sharing the stage with poet Michael Prior.
In a unique performance, Monette Magrath will present a one-woman show based on the writings of Zelda Fitzgerald, the wife of famed author F. Scott Fitzgerald. This event, organized by the Friends of the St. Paul Public Library, will be held at the Landmark Center on Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 1 p.m., with additional performances scheduled for November 16. Tickets are priced between $35 and $45, with reservations available at thefriends.org.
This week in Minnesota promises to be an enriching experience for literary enthusiasts, featuring a blend of established and emerging voices across various genres. From discussions to performances, these events celebrate the power of storytelling and the joy of reading.
