Writer Bernice L McFadden chronicles her extraordinary upbringing from a near-death experience at the age of two, through her childhood growing up in 1980s Brooklyn, boarding school and beyond, all while finding solace and inspiration in great works by Black American writers. McFadden weaves her own story alongside her ancestors and its colorful family history for a unique tale of passion, survival and success. McFadden is an award-winning author and assistant professor of creative writing at Tulane University.
Must-see festivals this month
Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival | March 26-30
The Tennessee Williams Festival has been a literary lover fan-favorite for 39 years. The festival plays host to writing workshops, lectures, original and classic plays and performances, parties and celebrations and more, all kicking off this year with the Stella shouting contest on March 23. tennesseewilliams.net
Saints+Sinners LGBTQ Literary Festival | March 28-30
Held in conjunction with the Tennessee Williams Festival, Saints+Sinners celebrates its 22nd year providing a forum for LGBTQ+ writers, publishers, readers and literature fans from around the world. Highlights include a short fiction book launch, reading series, an annual poetry anthology, panel discussions, writers’ rooms and, of course, parties and get-togethers. sasfest.org
The New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University | March 27-29
One of the fastest growing book festivals in the area, the New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University brings together readers of all ages with writers of all backgrounds. This year’s festival will feature nearly 100 national, regional and local writers including John Grisham, Michelle Miller, Michael Lewis, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Connie Chung and more. bookfest.tulane.edu
