Chaya Bhuvaneswar's collection of short stories White Dancing Elephants is getting a lot of national attention, and that is no accident. Bhuvaneswar has been called a "bold, smart, exciting new voice" by Lauren Groff, and Laura Van Den Berg called the stories "inventive and spellbinding." But Bhuvaneswar realized that her work didn't end when she finished the final draft and great writing was no guarantee the book would find make its way into readers' hand so she learned how to make sure her work entered into a vital, nationally-gripping conversation about ideas that matter and stories that get heard.
Bhuvaneswar can offer advice to on a "micro-level" to authors who devote hours, angst and dollars to the question of how to "promote" their books, make them visible to readers, make them not only sell but to be part of that larger cultural conversation. More importantly, she can address issues on a macro level. What we're fighting for, us readers and writers both, is for thoughtful books, books with complex, nuanced portrayals of this world or imagined worlds, to even be the source of ideas and questions in the news. We are fighting for a literate society that values a culture of reading and books. We are seeking to preserve the 'messiness' of experience and history, in the form of literary fiction and non-fiction, as an alternative to slogans, fake news, and bureaucratic speech.
There will be a brief talk addressing book promotion and creating a reading culture that preserves values such as tolerance, diversity and peaceful co-existence as well as an opportunity to ask questions. Come expecting delicious food, practical advice, and thoughtful conversation.
Seating is limited to 20 so register today! Talks take place at The Wise, HotelRED, 1501 Monroe St, Madison, WI
