Chapter 16 - Part 251

Living Honestly and Freely

Novelist Tova Mirvis writes about her decision to abandon Orthodox Judaism in The Book of Separation

By Maria Browning | October 25, 2017

As an Orthodox Jew, Tova Mirvis was taught from childhood that being a good wife and mother was her sacred duty, and her whole existence was shaped and bound by religious law. In her new memoir, The Book of Separation, she recalls her decision to leave her marriage and her faith community. Mirvis will appear at the Memphis Jewish Community Center on November 2 at 7 p.m.

Wordsworth’s Heir

Billy Collins, former poet laureate, talks with Chapter 16 about why we’re all born for poetry—and how school kills it for kids

By Margaret Renkl | October 23, 2017

Billy Collins is a frequent guest on National Public Radio shows like A Prairie Home Companion and Fresh Air, and his readings pack even halls that seat two thousand people or more. Collins will read from his new collection, The Rain in Portugal, at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music on October 26 at 6:15 p.m.

Telling Stories

Hampton Sides talks about Memphis, civil rights, and why some people think he’s a CIA agent

By Clay Risen | October 23, 2017

Hampton Sides will appear in conversation with novelist John Grisham in the University Theater at Christan Brothers University in Memphis on October 26 at 7 p.m. Ticket price includes a copy of Grisham’s new novel, The Rooster Bar.

On the Beach, On the Road, On Top of the Bestseller List

John Grisham is heading to Memphis

By Stephen Usery | October 23, 2017

John Grisham will discuss his new novel, The Rooster Bar in an onstage conversation with nonfiction author Hampton Sides at Christian Brothers University in Memphis on October 26 at 7 p.m.

Metaphysician of Daily Life

Former U.S. Poet Laureate Charles Wright will speak at ETSU

By Maria Browning | October 20, 2017

In advance of his return to Tennessee, Chapter 16 surveys the life and work of Charles Wright, whose poems are both accessible and deeply philosophical. Wright, a native of Pickwick Dam, will do two public events at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City on October 25.

Love Prevails

Becca Stevens weaves survivor stories, devotions, and original poems into her latest self-help guide

By Win Bassett | October 19, 2017

For Becca Stevens, a love for everything good will set readers on the path of healing from whatever might ail them. Her new book is Love Heals.

Tias and Primas: On Knowing and Loving the Women Who Raise Us

By Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez, illustrated by Josie Del Castillo
Seal Press
304 pages
$30

“Within these pages, I found my abuela, my tías and my primas — laughing, crying, and nodding alongside me. This book is a gift of understanding, and loving one’s family, even when our families are complicated and painful. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of storytelling and the profound connection of kinship.”

~ Paola Mendoza, author, organizer and filmmaker