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Liz Rosenberg reads from “The Laws of Gravity.”
Pen Parentis launches a new season of author readings
BY SCOTT STIFFLER | If you spent last weekend scanning those back-to-school circulars with the ulterior motive of appropriating some of your kid’s writing supplies for your own desk, then you might already be a member of Pen Parentis. You’re certainly thinking like one. Through peer support, outreach activities and podcasts, the NYC-based nonprofit literary organization provides resources to authors who are also parents, to help them stay on creative track after starting a family.
Open to the public, their free monthly literary salon provides a 21+ atmosphere in which avid readers, as well as professional and novice writers, can mingle over happy hour wine and beer, then sit down for a series of readings. On September 10, the salon begins its tenth season with poet and author Liz Rosenberg. An award-winning writer of books for young readers, Rosenberg will present excerpts from her second novel for adults: the bestselling “The Laws of Gravity.” Another bestselling author, Will Allison (“Long Drive Home”), balances fatherhood with writing novels and serving as editor to several literary journals. Emerging author Amy Shern, who has two kids and teaches writing, makes the trip across the bridge, to read from her second novel (“The Mermaid of Brooklyn”). Finally, Pen Parentis will present a $1,000 check to the winner of the 2013-2014 Pen Parentis Writing Fellowship for New Parents: John Jodzio. The author of two short story collections (including “Get In if You Want to Live”), Penn Parentis calls his work “funny, bizarre, and ultimately an emotional roller coaster.” Jodzio is flying in from Minneapolis, where he lives with his wife and his two-year-old son.
After the readings and award presentation, meet the authors and have them sign your own well-worn copy of their work — or purchase a fresh version from 172 Allen Street’s Bluestockings Bookstore, whose staff will be on hand.
Free. 21+. Tues., Sept. 10, 7pm. Free. 21+. At Andaz Wall Street (75 Wall St., at Water St. Enter on Water or Pearl Sts.). The 10th season continues on Oct. 8, with authors Ben Greenman, Jessica Francis Kane and Danielle Lazarin. On Nov. 12, “The FOOD Event” welcomes Aleksandra Crapanzano, Edward Lewine, Caroline M. Grant and John Donohue. Their Dec. 8 holiday event features an author mingle. For more info, visit penparentis.org.
