Freshwater

A woman's quest to understand the forces—spiritual, cultural, and neurological—that shape the self.

In her debut novel, Freshwater, Akwaeke Emezi tells the story of Ada, a Nigerian woman whose life changes dramatically upon arriving in America for college. As a child, Ada's family describes her as being born "with one foot on the other side," and she begins to develop multiple, distinctive selves. These identities converge into a powerful presence when Ada experiences a shocking event on campus. Taking the reins, these forces chart a dangerous new path for Ada, one beyond her imagination or control.

Joined by Glory Edim, founder of the online reading platform Well Read Black Girl, Emezi will discuss how we can use stories as a tool to center marginalized realities. A Q&A follows.

FIRST COME, FIRST SEATED

Registration does not guarantee admission. For free events, we generally overbook to ensure a full house. Priority will be given to those who have registered in advance, but registration does not guarantee admission. All registered seats are released 15 minutes before start time, and seats may become available at that time. A stand by line will form thirty minutes before the program.

The Program Room opens at 6 PM.