Join Seattle Writer and Editor Nisi Shawl for a Series on “Reading and Writing the ‘Other’” at The Seattle Public Library
release date: March 15, 2024
Join The Seattle Public Library this spring for an author series curated by Seattle writer and editor Nisi Shawl called “Reading and Writing the ‘Other:’ Diversity and Inclusion in Our Worlds.”
With a kickoff event on Thursday, March 28, the series’ three programs highlight the importance of stories created for everyone; of sharing the love of diverse, inclusive literature with new readers; and ensuring that what’s written about historically marginalized characters rings true.
Like all Library events, the three programs are free and open to the public, but advance registration is required for the March 28 and April 9 events. “Reading and Writing the ‘Other’” is presented with support from The Seattle Public Library Foundation and the Gary and Connie Kunis Foundation.
READING AND WRITING THE ‘OTHER’ PROGRAMS
- Writing the ‘Other’ and Sensitivity Reading. From 7 p.m. to 8:10 p.m., Thursday, March 28. Central Library – Level 1 Microsoft Auditorium. In this series kickoff, writers and instructors Nisi Shawl and K. Tempest Bradford discuss what writing the “Other” means and go into detail about one tool: the sensitivity read. They outline when and how to consult a sensitivity reader or cultural consultant and share tips for those hoping to start performing this helpful work. Registration is required.
- Research and Resources for Writing the ‘Other’ with Melody Steiner. From 7 p.m. to 8:10 p.m., Tuesday, April 9. Central Library – Level 1 Microsoft Auditorium. Author and research librarian Melody Steiner delves into ways our libraries and online search engines can guide us to the information we need for respectful, realistic depictions of differing communities in our writing. Registration is required.
- BIPOC Book Fair at the Douglass-Truth Branch. From noon to 3 p.m., Sunday, May 19. Douglass-Truth Branch, 2300 E. Yesler Way. The Library’s Douglass-Truth Branch will host a BIPOC book fair featuring a wide selection of books for children of all ages, and each child and each teen attending will receive a free book of their choice, while supplies last. All books for purchase will be by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) authors and all will feature BIPOC characters, making this a wonderful celebration of stories and values from diverse communities. Local BIPOC authors will appear throughout the afternoon to demonstrate fun activities. Presented with the Carl Brandon Society.
The Library frequently works with guest curators to develop community-responsive programming. See our guest curator page for more information.
ABOUT GUEST CURATOR NISI SHAWL
Nisi Shawl (they/them) is a multiple award-winning writer and editor of science fiction and fantasy. They are the author of “Everfair” and the newly released sequel “Kinning.” They are the co-author (with Cynthia Ward) of “Writing the Other: Bridging Cultural Differences for Successful Fiction.” Their short stories have appeared in Asimov's, Strange Horizons, and numerous other magazines and anthologies.
MORE INFORMATION
The Seattle Public Library brings people, information and ideas together to enrich lives and build community. One of our guiding principles is to promote literacy and a love of reading.
Contact the Library’s Ask Us service by phone at 206-386-4636 or by email or chat at www.spl.org/Ask. Staff are ready to answer questions and direct you to helpful resources.