If there’s one highlight to the pandemic, it’s gotta be the time it’s created to dive into our reading lists.
And while you may not be able to meet up with your book club or reading pals IRL any time soon, The Citizen is proud to be hosting an ongoing Virtual Book Club, featuring some of Philly’s favorite established and up-and-coming authors.
A couple weeks ago, we welcomed phenom Kiley Reid to talk about her debut set-in-Philly novel, Such a Fun Age. (If you missed it, you can catch the re-cap here.)
In May, we’ll tackle more great reads, in partnership with Head House Books:
On Tuesday, May 12, join us to hear from Liz Moore as she reads from and answers questions about Long Bright River, her haunting novel about the opioid epidemic, which The Washington Post described as an “extraordinary new crime novel” and a “wonderful thriller.” Set in Kensington, it comes at a time when, even against the backdrop of the pandemic, issues like addiction, police corruption, and safe injection sites continue to take center stage in Philly.
On Wednesday, May 20, we’ll host author and podcaster Jo Piazza to talk about her political send-up, Charlotte Walsh Likes to Win, a novel set in Pennsylvania about a woman inspired to run for state senator after the 2016 Presidential election—what the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette called a “timely and socially relevant feminist novel.” Piazza will also share some of the relationship advice she’s gleaned from her popular podcast, Committed—something we may need now more than ever.
And later in the month—stay tuned for details—we’ll host Jennifer Weiner, the best-selling author and New York Times contributor, to talk about her latest novel, Big Summer, which is already racking up stellar reviews. The Washington Post said, “It’s deliciously fun: frothy entertainment with surprising depth. […] It’s empowering and surprising—a reminder to put down the phone and enjoy each moment for what it is, rather than what it could look like on Instagram.” Weiner, of course, doesn’t just crank out hit books: She’s also helped spark the national conversation about women’s rightful place in literature.
All the books are available at Head House Books. (Order early to ensure quick delivery.) And join us in a BYO-dinner from one of these women-owned restaurants doing delivery and takeout.
Come ready to ask your questions to the authors, and stay tuned for more upcoming book events.
We can’t wait to “see” you soon.