Accomplished author to speak in Peters Township about new book
Yaa Gyasi may be young, but with her debut novel, “Homegoing,” she’s already a celebrated writer.
Her praises have been sung by the New Yorker, the New York Times, the Washington Post and many others.
The winner of the National Book Foundation’s “5 Under 35” honor will be discussing her book at 7 p.m. Thursday with the Peters Township Library Foundation at the Bible Chapel’s South Hills Campus, 300 Gallery Drive, McMurray.
“We just feel so honored to be hosting Yaa in our community,” said Maura Kelly, president of the Peter’s Township Library Foundation.
Gyasi, born in Ghana and raised in the United States, was inspired to write “Homegoing” after a 2009 trip to her homeland. The book chronicles the families of two sisters separated by slavery – one sold into servitude and the other married to a white slaver. The novel follows their families for hundreds of years, tracing the impacts of their early ancestors across continents and generations.
“We really feel [the book] resonates with people who love to read,” Kelly said. “It also resonates with people who are interested in diversity initiatives.”
Kelly hopes that everyone in the community can gain something from Gyasi’s visit.
“You don’t need to read the book to get something out of the program,” she said.
Kelly and Richard Easton, director of conflict and resolution studies and Washington & Jefferson College, will be moderating the conversation, which she hopes will lend to the excitement of the evening.
“Personally, I’m always interested in learning about a writer’s craft,” she said.
The event will feature music performed by Ysmoussa Camara, a master of African drumming and director of the African Music and Dance Ensemble at the University of Pittsburgh. And, for those with a VIP ticket, small bites will be provided by Garnett Livingston of La Maison.
Brining these types of events featuring writers of such high caliber to the area is important to Kelly. With a larger venue, more exciting authors and exciting extras, she hopes that the Peter’s Township area and the Library Foundation can grow to bring even more opportunity to the region.
“She’s a rising star and we feel like we are too.”
The cost is $10 for students and $15 for adults. A limited number of VIP tickets are also available for $60. To purchase tickets, go online to www.ptlibrary.org/event/evening-yaa-gyasi.