Tonight, as part of the programming for K-State First Book, we were fortunate to hear Cherie Dimaline speak about her work, The Marrow Thieves, the 2021 selection for the university’s common reading program.
In telling her own story and the story behind the book, Dimaline asked us to think about a number of important themes and experiences: Indigenous cultures, the power of stories, how we honor the past and imagine the future by telling those stories, the importance of joy, and how, in Dimaline’s words, “Survival demands specificity.”
The Q&A, moderated by Lisa Tatonetti (Professor, Department of English) and Mia Wells (sophomore, College of Education / K-State First Learning Assistant), provided a lively and engaging window into Dimaline’s writing process, her conversations with t.v. and film producers, and her decision to write two more books to extend the world of The Marrow Thieves, with the next book, Hunting By Stars, appearing next month.
The Department of English and our honorary society Sigma Tau Delta are just two of many sponsors and partners who help make the programming for this year’s K-State First Book possible.
We’re grateful for the work of Tara Coleman, Associate Professor of K-State Libraries and K-State First Book Coordinator (and English alum, BA ’02!), and everyone who helps make this program possible.
If you attend Dimaline’s talk this evening, please consider completing the event survey. Your responses will help us create programming that inspires conversation, reflection, and action.
We hope to see you at one or more of the other events scheduled for this fall!
— Karin Westman, PR/Events Committee Chair, K-State First Book & Department Head, English
K-State English 