The good folks over at Algonquin Books have just launched an exciting new initiative: The Algonquin Book Club, pairing several of Algonquin’s authors with other distinguished writers for conversations at locations around the country. Even better news? Whether you can make any event in person or not, each interview will be broadcast simultaneously on the web. First up is Julia Alvarez, talking about one of her earlier novels, In the Time of the Butterflies, with Edwidge Danticat, author of Brother, I’m Dying, on March 21, at 7 p.m. The event takes place at at Books & Books in Coral Gables, Florida, and the webcast can be found here. In advance of this debut event, Algonquin is also offering reading resources, including an new essay from Julia Alvarez about the novel, a reading group guide, book club tips and ideas, and wine and recipe pairings inspired by the book.
Future events in the series include:
- 4/26: Sara Gruen (Water for Elephants), interviewed by Kathryn Stockett, author of The Help
- 8/18: Heidi Durrow (The Girl Who Fell from the Sky), interviewed by Terry McMillan, author of Getting to Happy
- 10/20: Robert Goolrick (A Reliable Wife), interviewed by Patricia Cornwell, author of Port Mortuary
And then in March of next year: Lauren Grodstein (A Friend of the Family), interviewed by Stephen King, author of Full Dark, No Stars.