The Nevada County Library is excited to announce an evening with award-winning author Charles Yu at the Miners Foundry on Friday, May 27th from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. The event is sponsored by the Nevada County Library, Nevada County Superintendent of Schools, Nevada County Friends of the Library, and Community Asian Theatre of the Sierras.
Yu is the author of four books, including the critically acclaimed novel Interior Chinatown--this year's Nevada County Reads selection--and the National Book Award-winning How to Live Safely in a Science Fictional Universe. As a screenwriter, Yu has also written for television shows such as "Westworld" and "Legends of Tomorrow."
Interior Chinatown explores themes of personal identity as perceived through the culture at-large and challenges readers to ask themselves: What role am I expected to play in life? Chinese culture has been a part of Nevada County’s rich history since the Gold Rush era and the themes of Interior Chinatown provide an opportunity for community dialogue around the legacy of Chinese residents and laborers.
"We are thrilled to have Charles Yu come to Nevada County as part of Nevada County Reads 2023," said Ian Boalt, Librarian for the Nevada County Library. "This event promises to be a wonderful celebration of literature and culture, and we hope that everyone will come out to enjoy the music, the interview, and the chance to meet Charles Yu."
Doors open at 5:30 pm. The main event will start at 6:00 pm with a performance by Grass Valley Taiko. Charles Yu will be joined in discussion with County Librarian Nick Wilczek and Donn Harris of Color Me Human. Audience members will have a chance to engage with Yu during a Q&A session and the author will sign books following the event. Books will be available for purchase courtesy of Harmony Books. The event will feature light catering provided by the Nevada County Library and drinks will be available for purchase at the Miners Foundry bar.
Nevada County Reads is a countywide reading program that has been promoting literacy and community engagement since its inception in 2006. The program is organized by the Nevada County Library and brings together the residents of Nevada County through reading and discussion. Each year, a variety of events are organized, including author visits, book discussions, and film screenings. Learn more about the program and view past selections at nevadacountyreads.com.
Nevada County Reads also encourages youth participation through a logo contest and high school writing contest. This year’s winner of the Nevada County Reads logo contest is Mya Marsh, whose work was used on Nevada County Reads program marketing. High school participants who have entered the writing contest will be invited to a private writing workshop and Q&A with Charles Yu, and winners will be announced before May 27th.
