The Big Read wraps up with Tayari Jones visit
Author Tayari Jones is coming to Chattanooga for four days to help celebrate the conclusion of Chattanooga’s citywide reading initiative, The Big Read.
Jones’ book, “Silver Sparrow,” was announced in January as the choice for Big Read, by Writers@ Work at Chattanooga State Community College, which sponsored the reading effort. Since January, community programs in theatrical and visual art have been presented to inspire discussion about themes and family dynamics in “Silver Sparrow.”
“Silver Sparrow” is about two families of a bigamist, James Witherspoon, as told through the voices of Witherspoon’s daughter in each family. Chaurisse Witherspoon and her mother, Laverne, have no idea there is a second family. Dana Yarboro, James’ daughter with wife Gwen, is told by her father that she’s a secret. The plot builds to the inevitable, explosive confrontation between the two mother-daughter pairs.
Jones will discuss the writing process for “Silver Sparrow” and meet readers at these events:
Monday, April 10:
An Evening With Tayari Jones, 5-7 p.m., Bessie Smith Cultural Center, 200 E. M.L. King Blvd.
Guests will enjoy a reading by Jones and a performance by a local storytelling group. A dessert reception and book signing will follow.
Tuesday, April 11:
Inside the Mind of Tayari Jones, 7-8:30 p.m., The Camp House, 149 E. M.L. King Blvd.
Chattanooga State Professor Lori Barton will interview Jones about topics such as her writing process, the stories behind her novels and her identity as a Southern writer. Questions will be taken from the audience, and the author will sign books following the interview.
Wednesday, April 12:
A Night at the Museum: Guided Gallery Walk and Readings, 5:15-8:30 p.m., Hunter Museum of American Art, 10 Bluff View.
Jones takes center stage in the lobby of Hunter Museum for a reading and talk. Come early for a guided gallery walk with Adera Causey, and stick around afterward for refreshments, book signing and chance to speak to the author.
Thursday, April 13:
Book signing, 10-11 a.m., Star Line Books, 1467 Market St.
Last chance to get your book signed by the author before she leaves town.
For more information about The Big Read or its events, check the website www.chattbigread.com