Bookends University is thrilled to announce the launch of a brand new, in-person series of informal book talks by writers for writers, the first Monday of each month.

Ever wonder what books authors return to again and again for inspiration? Or what book serves as influence throughout a career or during the writing of a given project? Connect with the literary community for an author-led discussion about a specific book that has guided, informed, or instructed them in craft. Stay for a Q&A with the author, then mingle with fellow writers and readers. Enjoy a glass of wine, sparkling water, or snack from our lovely new Minibar!

Ticket options: $40 (includes the designated book and a 20% discount code for a list of books chosen by the guest author); $20 “student” ticket (Does not include the book but does include the 20% discount code).

REGISTER HERE!!

First Mondays are for ALL writers--student writers, aspiring writers, professional writers, writers who gave it up and are ready to return. We are so excited to offer this space for inspiration, connection, and community.

Our inaugural event will be led by Eula Biss, the author of four books: Having and Being Had (2020), On Immunity (2014), Notes from No Man’s Land (2009), and The Balloonists (2002). Her work has been translated into a dozen languages and has been recognized by a National Book Critics Circle Award, a Guggenheim Fellowship, and a 21st Century Award from the Chicago Public Library. As a 2023 National Fellow at New America, she is at work on a collection of essays about how private property has shaped our world.

For the past twenty years, Biss has taught writing in large lecture halls and small community bookstores, at public elementary schools and private universities. She developed a commitment to progressive education at Hampshire College, where she studied creative writing and visual art before earning an MFA in nonfiction writing from the University of Iowa. She currently teaches nonfiction for the Bennington Writing Seminars. She is a founding editor of Essay Press and a member of the Penny Collective. She lives a mile from Lake Michigan, where she swims in sun and shadow.

“She's a poet, essayist and a class spy…believer and apostate, moth and flame.” New York Times

Our inaugural book is Suite for Barbara Loden by Nathalie Léger.

Please email Freda Love Smith with any questions: freda@boookendsandbeginnings.com