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| The Happenings Feature - August 2007 |
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SECOND BROOKLYN BOOK FESTIVAL TAKES NATIONAL AND GLOBAL FOCUS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
On Sunday, September 16, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, the Borough President's Literary Council and Brooklyn Tourism host the 2007 Brooklyn Book Festival, which builds on the festival's success, adding top national and international authors and establishing it as a major literary destination.
The 2007 festival will again be a day-long, free event at Brooklyn Borough Hall and Plaza in Downtown Brooklyn, from 10am to 6pm, featuring readings and panels on multiple indoor and outdoor stages, a Target Children's Area, an Independence Community Foundation Young Writers Pavilion, and more than 100 exhibitors, including bookstores, publishers, and literary organizations. The festival is expanding, adding the beautiful Brooklyn Historical Society as a new venue. As part of the day's events, the Brooklyn Public Library will kick off its borough-wide "Big Read" featuring Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird.
"Last year's Book Festival proved that Brooklyn is a literary epicenter of New York City and America," said Borough President Markowitz. "With our marquee authors from Brooklyn and now around the world, this year's event again puts our unrivaled diversity of voices on display, and makes reading and writing as hip as being a Brooklynite. When it comes to books, Brooklyn holds the title - period!"
FULL SCHEDULE
COURT ROOM
10:00 a.m. ÊTO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD: THE RULE OF LAW.
The Brooklyn Public Library borough-wide reading project ÒThe Big ReadÓ kicks off at the Brooklyn Book Festival with scholars Patricia Williams and Wayne Greenhaw, who will discuss Harper LeeÕs classic To Kill a Mockingbird and ask how far America has come since the Jim Crow South era depicted in the novel. Introduced by Literary Council Member Jay Kaplan of the Brooklyn Public Library.
11:00 a.m. ÊCULTURE CRASH.
Some of the finest literature arises when cultures collides, when old meets new, when borders are crossed. Readings by celebrated authors Ana Castillo, Colin Channer, and Amitav Ghosh explore these dynamics.
12:00 p.m.Ê CRACK IN THE FA‚ADE.
Award-winning authors Stephen Carter, Colson Whitehead, and Mary Gaitskill read from their most recent novels, presenting work that opens doors to unexplored psychological corners and uncomfortable realities.
1:00 p.m.Ê REALITY & THE WAR ON TERROR.
Three leading commentators report from different fronts in the war on terror: Rajiv Chandrasekaran assesses Iraq, Christian Parenti discusses Afghanistan, and Moustafa Bayoumi focuses on Arab-Americans in the U.S. Moderated by Laura Flanders.
2:00 p.m.Ê HONOR & JUSTICE.
Authors whose fiction provokes moral dilemmas and challenges our basic notions of human justice: Chris Abani, Pete Hamill and Susanna Moore.
3:00 p.m. ÊMY LIFE.
Three revered authors discuss their new books that detail experiences from their own lives and their respective paths to personal growth, creative expression, and political activism. Featuring Edwidge Danticat, Mike Farrell, and Katha Pollitt.
4:00 p.m. ÊA.M. HOMES IN CONVERSATION WITH FRANCINE PROSE.
Award-winning author A.M. Homes delves deep into the stories behind her best-selling novels and recent memoir, The MisstressÕs Daughter, in this interview with novelist and Reading Like A Writer author Francine Prose. Introduced and presented with Bomb magazine Editor-in-Chief Betsy Sussler.
5:00 p.m. ÊWORKS-IN-PROGRESS.
The Book Festival offers an exclusive peak into the soon-to-be-published works of groundbreaking authors Jim Carroll, Gloria Naylor and Joe Meno.
ST. FRANCIS COLLEGE
3:00 p.m.Ê BROOKLYN BRIDGES TO EUROPE
Brooklyn authors Jonathan Lethem and Jonathan Safran Foer, in conversation with their French and German publishers, explore the appeal of their work to European audiences. Find out what writers have influenced them during their time in Europe. Moderated by literary critic Liesl Schillinger.
4:00 p.m.Ê BORN & RAISED.
Short readings and a moderated discussion about BrooklynÕs past and present with renowned authors who have always called the borough home. Featuring Phillip Lopate, Pete Hamill, and Bernice McFadden.
5:00 p.m.Ê DAVE EGGERS AND VALENTINO ACHAK DENG BUILD A SCHOOL
Dave Eggers presents a slide show and discusses his recent trip to Marial Bai, Sudan, hometown of Valentino Achak Deng, the hero of his latest novel (but not in attendance at the festival), What is the What.Ê Valentino and Dave returned to lay the foundation for a new educational complex in the town. Introduction by Nigerian author Chris Abani.
Ê
COMMUNITY ROOM
10:00 a.m. ÊMY FIRST TIME.
Launching a new annual program of readings by first-time novelists, the Book Festival taps Jonathan Hayes, Jeff Hobbs, Eisa Nefertari Ulen, and Anya Ulinich to read from their debuts.
11:00 a.m. ÊHARD-BOILED FICTION.
Readings by three of this yearÕs most exciting crime-fiction authors: Megan Abbott, Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes, and David Dante Troutt.
12:00 p.m. ÊHOUSING WORKS PRESENTS.
Entertaining fiction readings curated by Housing Works Bookstore CafŽ, a new Book Festival partner for 2007, featuring George Saunders, Lynne Tillman and Joshua Ferris. Introduced by Housing Works President Jason Shure.
1:00 p.m. ÊUNDERCURRENTS.
Novels can powerfully reveal what is hidden between the lines of human interaction. The potency of the written word is reflected in readings by three high-caliber fiction writers: Paula Fox, Ben Greenman, and another author TBA.
2:00 p.m. ÊDEVELOPING STORIES.
Investigative authors discuss how they identify and cultivate sources in challenging environments. Featuring GeorgeÊPacker, David Ottaway, andÊLaurie Garrett. Moderated by Steve Hindy, co-owner/founder of Brooklyn Brewery, and former Middle East correspondent for the Associated Press.
3:00 p.m. ÊAFRICA NOW.
The continent of Africa is undergoing a literary renaissance, and this program highlights three of todayÕs most exciting young African writers: Uzodinma Iweala, Doreen Baingana, and Mohammed Naseehu Ali. Introduced by Tin House editor Rob Spillman.
4:00 p.m. ÊCOMING OF AGE.
Writing novels for adult readers that feature young, maturing characters is a literary challenge requiring tremendous skill and compassion. This diverse crew of authors has conquered the challenge in their new novels. Readings by Alisa Valdes-Rodriquez, Tao Lin, and Martha Southgate.
5:00 p.m. ÊBROOKLYNÕS OWN.
Four burgeoning home-borough publications prove thereÕs something in the water that makes Brooklynites especially good with words. A brief introduction by each publicationÕs publisher or editor precedes each reading. Shane Book reads representing Harp & Altar (introduced by publisher Keith Newton), Michael Thomas represents A Public Space (introduced by publisher Brigid Hughes), Elizabeth Strout represents Tin House (introduced by editor Rob Spillman), and Joseph Coulson represents Archipelago Books (introduced by publisher Jill Schoolman).
MAINSTAGE
10:00 a.m. ÊURBAN WORD.Ê
Ken Siegelman, Brooklyn Poet Laureate, opens the stage with readings of his poetry.Ê Young poets from Urban Word bring the stage to life with animated, poignant and challenging spoken word performances.
11:00 a.m. ÊRHYTHM MAPS.
The undeniable passion in the work of these poets can be felt in the very rhythm of their words. Featuring La Bruja, Staceyann Chin, Steve Dalachinsky, Gregory Pardlo, and Danny Simmons.
12:00 p.m.Ê POETRY & POLITICS.
Poets read from work infused with political urgency. Featuring Sinan Antoon, Eliza Griswold, Kimiko Hahn, and C.D. Wright.
1:00 p.m. ÊTRIBUTE TO SEKOU SUNDIATA.Ê
BAM presents artists performing from the works of this great poet, performance artist, and Brooklyn resident, who died in July. Readers include Rashidah Ismaili, originally from West Africa, poet, playwright, short story writer and one of the founding members of Calabash Poets, along with Sekou Sundiata. Other performers TBA.
1:30 p.m. ÊONLY THE DEAD KNOW BROOKLYN.
BrooklynÕs revered authors of the past are performed by actors from the Troupe Theatre and a special homage to Walt Whitman will be offered by actors from the Brave New World Repertory Theatre from their recent theatrical production of Walt Whitman's poem ÒCrossing Brooklyn Ferry.Ó
2:00 p.m. ÊON THE ROAD FOR 50 YEARS.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the publication of Jack KerouacÕs American classic On the Road. KerouacÕs friend and author Joyce Johnson and New York Times journalist John Leland discuss the impact of this landmark novel on American culture. Hosted by Literary Council member Paul Slovak.
3:00 p.m.Ê DOMINIC CARTER IN CONVERSATION WITH BROOKLYN BOROUGH PRESIDENT MARTY MARKOWITZ.Ê
NY1 News Senior Political Reporter and No MommaÕs Boy author Dominic Carter and Borough President Marty Markowitz discuss their childhood experiences and rising above adversity.
4:00 p.m.Ê SIMMONS IN THE HOUSE.
The Simmons family has taken American culture by storm, and they will discuss their new books, along with other matters of family and culture. In this unprecedented event, painter/poet Danny Simmons shares the stage with his brother, rap star Joseph ÒReverend RunÓ Simmons (of Run-DMC), and JosephÕs wife, childrenÕs author Justine Simmons.
5:00 p.m. ÊEVERYONE'S A (FORMER) CRITIC.
Three music and arts critics known for their humor discuss what it means to be a critic and the art of writing beyond the review. Featuring popular essayist, memoirist, critic and soon-to-be novelist Chuck Klosterman, Rolling Stone music critic and new memoirist Rob Sheffield, and Believer editor and former Village Voice editor/critic Ed Park whose comic novel Personal Days Êwill be released in 2008.
BROOKLYN HISTORICAL SOCIETY
12:00 p.m. ÊBROOKLYN COLLEGES.Ê
BrooklynÕs colleges are known for their outstanding writing programs.Ê Readings by their outstanding instructors and professors.Ê
1:00 p.m. ÊTHE VIEW: WHY BOOK REVIEWS MATTER.
How does a good book make it onto your busy radar? These writers, editors and critics discuss the rapidly changing world of online and print book reviewing. Featuring novelist and Scribner editor Colin Harrison; novelist, memoirist, and book critic Kathryn Harrison; poet and former New York Times Book Review editor Harvey Shapiro; and Brooklyn Rail Books Editor John Reed. Moderated by Jane Ciabattari, National Book Critics Circle Vice President/Membership, short-story writer, and book critic.
2:00 p.m.Ê BROOKLYN:Ê A PHOTOGRAPHIC RETROSPECTIVE.
Collectors and publishers of vintage Brooklyn photographs Brian Merlis and Lee A. Rosenzweig talk about their books documenting Brooklyn.
3:00 p.m. ÊAMERICAN HERITAGE DICTIONARY DEFINE-A-THON.
This fast-paced contestÑlike a spelling bee for definitionsÑwill test the lexicological mettle of its participants. Hosted by American Heritage Dictionary Senior Editor Steve Kleinedler.Ê A Book Festival first!
4:00 p.m.Ê THE BROOKLYNITES.Ê
Photographers Seth Kushner and Anthony LaSala show slides and discuss their recently published book on photographs, The Brooklynites.
5:00 p.m. ÊTAKING LIBERTIES.
Authors discuss recent and historical changes to AmericansÕ constitutional rights. Featuring ACLU Executive Director Anthony Romero, Village Voice journalist and Rudy Giuliani investigative biographer Wayne Barrett, and racial-discrimination and constitutional scholar Gloria Browne-Marshall.Ê Moderated by Errol Louis, The New York Daily News.Ê
Ê
NORTH STAGE
11:00 a.m. ÊMOM & POP CULTURE.
A discussion about the challenges and joys of 21st Century parenting, with two prominent and outspoken writers. Featuring Neal Pollack and Amy Sohn. Moderated by Ayun Halliday.
12:00 p.m. ÊCHEFÕS STORY.
Two renowned chefs featured in the recent book and Public Television series about chefsÕ personal histories, ChefÕs Story, talk about their paths to the kitchen and culinary fame. Featuring David Bouley (Bouley, etc.) and Dan Barber (Blue Hill, Blue Hill at Stone Barns restaurants). Moderated by the showÕs host and The French Culinary Institute founder/CEO, Dorothy Hamilton.
1:00 p.m. ÊAMERICAN HERITAGE DICTIONARY DEFINE-A-THON.
This fast-paced contestÑlike a spelling bee for definitionsÑwill test the lexicological mettle of its participants. Hosted by American Heritage Dictionary Senior Editor Steve Kleinedler.Ê A Book Festival first!
2:00 p.m.Ê TBA
3:00 p.m.Ê TOWARD A MEANINGFUL LIFE.Ê
Rabbi Simon Jacobson reads from the new edition of his book.
4:00 p.m.Ê FIRST BIG CRUSH. Ê
Eric Arnold gives the down and dirty on making great wineÉdown under.
5:00 p.m. ÊJOURNEYS OF TIME.Ê
Robert Sullivan reads from his work Cross Country: 15 Years & 90,000 Miles. Bill Strickland reads and discusses his memoir Ten Points.
Ê
The Independence Community Foundation Young Writers Pavilion
11:00 a.m. ÊTHE SPORTING LIFE.
Three authors discuss their real-life sports experience as well as their sports-themed fiction for kids and young adults. Featuring Phil Bildner (Barnstormers), Matt de la Pena (Ball DonÕt Lie), college basketball player and author, and Sharon Robinson, (Safe at Home; Slam Dunk!) novelist and daughter of Jackie Robinson.
12:00 p.m. ÊENCHANTED ESCAPADES.Ê
The best stories are the ones thatÊtransport us to places where we can live out our dreams though the fantastic adventures of beloved and courageous characters.Ê Authors Gail Carson Levine, (Ella Enchanted; Fairest), Michael Buckley (The Sisters Grimm series) and Troy CLE (Marvelous World) read and discuss their work.Ê
1:00 p.m. ÊTHE OUTSIDERS.Ê
The experience of feeling like you stand alone in the world has made for some of our greatest books. Join award winning author Jacqueline Woodson and novelist Marina Budhos as they read from their middle grade novels.
2:00 p.m. ÊIN A WORLDÉ
Vampires, werewolves, faeries, and dark magic reign supreme in the works of these young adult writers. Featuring Cassandra Clare(City of Bones), Libba Bray(A Great and Terrible Beauty; Rebel Angels), and Melissa Marr (Wicked Lovely).Ê Moderated by book editor Sharyn November.
3:00 p.m. ÊTHE GLAM FACTOR.
Behind the scenes of fictional glamour.Ê Three teen writers read from their novels and talk about their stories set in the rich environs of Orange County, CA and Manhattan high society. Featuring Tia Williams (The Accidental Diva), Antonio Pagliarulo (The Celebutants), and Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez (Haters).Ê Moderated by author Daniel Ehrenhaft.
4:00 p.m. ÊTHE GRAPHIC TRUTH.
Teenage readers are a powerful force in the comics world, driving the growing popularity of everything from literaryÊgraphic novels to manga.Ê Artists Ivan Velez Jr., (Tales from the Closet);ÊLauren WeinsteinÊ(Girl Stories)Êand Eric Wight (My Dead Girlfriend) display and discuss their work.Ê See stories come alive on the page!Ê Moderated by Heidi McDonald, Publishers Weekly.
5:00 p.m.Ê BROOKLYN UNDERGROUND LIT MATCH.
Young contestants in the borough-wide writing contest, Brooklyn Underground, read from their work. Emceed by comedian/actor Michael Ian Black.
Target ChildrenÕs Area
The Target ChildrenÕs Area provides day-long literary activities for children
ages 2 Ð 8.Ê Photos with Bullseye, the Target dog.
10:00 a.m. Troupe TheatreÑ Performing Enchanting ChildrenÕs Classics by Ezra Jack Keats, Arthur Lobel
11:00 a.m.Ê Mo WillemsÑElephant and Piggie; Knufflebunny: A Cautionary Tale
11:45 a.m.Ê Jon ScieszkaÑCowboy and Octopus; Time Warp Trio
12:30 p.m. Alyssa Satin Capucilli- Biscuit; Katy Duck
1:15 p.m.Ê Mari Takabayashi--I Live in Brooklyn
2:00 p.m.Ê Myla GoldbergÑCatching the Moon
2:45 p.m. Randall de SeveÑThe Toy Boat
3:30 p.m. Tad HillsÑDuck and Goose; Waking Up Wendell
4:15 p.m. Kam MakÑMy Chinatown; Moon of the Monarch Butterflies
5:00 p.m.Ê Pat CummingsÑClean Your Room Harvey Moon |
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The Happenings Feature - Story Archive
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Happenings Story Archive
Visit our HAPPENINGS page to see events taking place in South Brooklyn. |
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Feminist Art takes center stage at the Brooklyn Museum
The Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art is the first of its kind in the nation
Gloria Steinem and Elizabeth A. Sackler
©Mark D Phillips View Larger |
Feminist icons, including Gloria Stenem, came to The Brooklyn Museum for the historic opening of the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art - a musem-within-a-museum that
celebrates the work of women artists.
Steinem's words echoed through the hallways. "As a child I was rescued by books, but excluded by museums," she said. "This center allows men to see beyond the patriarchy."
The centerpiece of the new expansion is The Dinner Party, Judy Chicago's massive triangular table bringing together 39 of history's greatest women with individual
place settings unique to each woman.
"As a young girl, I would ride the bus to the museum to look at my favorite art - Cézanne, Monet - and wonder where the women artists were," said Chicago. "Elizabeth Sackler's
act of genorosity demonstrates that one individual can still make a difference, in this case, interceding in history to help ensure an ineradicable place for women."
Feminist Art takes center stage.... Continued
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Barclays Center comes to Brooklyn
In a bold move, Barclays bank bought the naming rights to the new Nets arena, to be called Barclays Center, the centerpiece of Atlantic Yards.
The 20,000 seat arena will be the home of the Nets in the 2009 season, signalling the return of
professional sports to Brooklyn. It will also serve as a venue for arts and other athletic events,
hosting more than 200 events annually.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg joined a star-studded gathering at the Brooklyn Museum on Thursday, January 18,
to announce the partnership. On stage with the mayor were Nets stars Jason Kidd and Vince Carter,
rapper Jay-Z, NBA Commissioner David Stern, and architect Frank Gehry.
"I know of no company that would be better to bring their reputation to Brooklyn," said Bloomberg.
"And the opportunity to put your name on something this big, and with this phenomenal design, this
is the kind of iconic design that people are going to recognize from any part of the country and every
part of the world."
Barclays Center comes to Brooklyn.... Continued
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DUMBO IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT UNVEILS
FIRST ANNUAL "DUMBO LIGHT CAPADES" IN BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK
©Mark D Phillips
Empire Stores Building |
"It's holiday lights - Brooklyn style!" said Borough President Markowitz. "Where else but in Dumbo can you find such an illuminated mix of creativity, originality and holiday spirit? These beautiful light sculptures will brighten up Brooklyn for residents of all ages, and make Brooklyn Bridge Park even more festive this holiday season."
Lights on Empire Stores will run for 80 seconds every hour on the half hour and six sculptures grace the field beneath the Manhattan Bridge.
Light Capades.... Continued
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