Viet Thanh Nguyen in conversation with John Bradley
Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Sympathizer
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The Wild Detectives
Join us for an illuminating discussion with Pulitzer Prize-winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen, whose works have reshaped the narrative of the Vietnam War and the Vietnamese diaspora. In this special event, he will delve into the themes of identity, memory, and the immigrant experience that permeate his acclaimed novels The Sympathizer and The Refugees.
Nguyen's powerful storytelling and insightful commentary offer a profound exploration of the complexities of war, exile, and cultural identity. This event promises to be a thought-provoking experience that will resonate with readers and thinkers alike. Viet will be in conversation with John Bradley, the book club director at The Wild Detectives.
Weekend Pass - The Ultimate Hay Festival Forum Dallas Experience Make the most of your Hay Festival weekend with the exclusive Weekend Pass. This pass includes access to all ticketed and free events across Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, ensuring you won’t miss any of the festival's offerings. You'll enjoy special entry to The Wild Detectives bar with an array of drinks to enjoy, along with a delightful Sketches of Spain lunch featuring an appetizer and paella on one of the days. Additionally, the Weekend Pass includes a special lunch at Taco y Vino, one of Dallas’s most beloved spots, where you can savor a memorable meal as part of your literary weekend. With the Weekend Pass, you’ll have the freedom to explore, engage, and indulge in all that the festival has to offer across all three days, making it the ultimate way to experience Hay Festival Forum Dallas.
This event has taken place
This ticket needs to be redeemed for a wristband at The Wild Detectives anytime from Friday at 5 p.m. until the end of activities on Sunday, the 13th. You will need the wristband to access the activities.
The Man Who Laughs is the 1928 classic Victor Hugo adaptation wildly considered to be the visual inspiration for the supervillain The Joker. This classic melodrama tale told in the style of German Expressionism was directed by Paul Leni with horror overtones.
"When a proud noble refuses to kiss the hand of the despotic King James in 1690, he is cruelly executed and his son surgically disfigured."
The film will feature a live score by The Historic Orchestra featuring composer Jason M Reimer (History at Our Disposal, Baptist Generals) Jesse Chandler (Midlake, Mercury Rev, Pneumatic Tubes)
Day Pass - Your All-Access Experience Unlock a full day of literary and cultural immersion with the Hay Festival Dallas Day Pass. This pass grants you access to all ticketed and free events, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the inspiring discussions, panels, and performances. Enjoy exclusive entry to The Wild Detectives bar, where you can unwind and enjoy a selection of drinks in a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere. Indulge in a special lunch that includes a taste of Sketches of Spain—featuring a delicious appetizer and authentic paella to savor as part of your festival experience. Whether you're diving into thought-provoking conversations or soaking up the festive ambiance, the Day Pass offers everything you need for a perfect festival day.
This event has taken place
This ticket needs to be redeemed for a wristband at The Wild Detectives anytime from Friday at 5 p.m. until the end of activities on Sunday, the 13th. You will need the wristband to access the activities.
Bring your little ones for a delightful morning with Paddington Bear! Enjoy a heartwarming story time, followed by a hands-on arts & crafts session where kids can create their own Paddington-inspired masterpieces. Don’t miss the special appearance by Paddington himself! Families can also indulge in tea and marmalade sandwiches, just like Paddington loves.
Join us for a unique journey through the historic roots of Dallas! The La Réunion Tour, presented in collaboration with the Alliance Française, celebrates the European heritage of Oak Cliff, inspired by the 19th-century La Réunion colony, a utopian settlement founded by European immigrants from Belgium, France, and Switzerland.Tour starts and ends in Bishop Arts.
Tour will start and finish at The Wild Detectives bookstore.
Tour Highlights:
Historic Walks: Explore the rich history of Oak Cliff, learning about the impact of the La Réunion colony on the neighborhood.
Cultural Insights: Discover the European influences that shaped the area, with fascinating stories and local legends.
Bar Stops: Savor the neighborhood's flavors with stops at local bars, each offering a special drink inspired by La Réunion traditions.
Community & Fun: Meet fellow history enthusiasts, enjoy great company, and celebrate the vibrant culture of Oak Cliff.
Whether you're a history buff, a Dallas local, or just looking for a fun day out, the La Réunion Tour is an experience not to be missed!
Book Club: Turning the Page on Climate Change - Exploring Environmental Narratives
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Apprentice Creative Space
Join us for a thought-provoking edition of the Book Club, where we delve into the pressing issue of climate change through the lens of literature.
Climate change is one of the most critical challenges of our time, and literature has become a powerful tool to explore its impact, raise awareness, and inspire action. This event invites you to bring a book that tackles the themes of environmental change, whether through fiction, nonfiction, or a memoir, and join others in an evening of silent reading and meaningful discussion.
What to Expect:
Read in Silence: Bring a book that addresses climate change or environmental issues, whether it’s a powerful work of fiction, a detailed scientific analysis, or an evocative memoir. Spend an hour immersed in stories that highlight the fragility of our planet and the urgency of protecting it.
Share and Discuss: After our hour of silent reading, we’ll come together to share our thoughts and insights. How does the book you’ve chosen illuminate the challenges of climate change? What emotions and ideas does it evoke? Whether you’re reading a novel that paints a dystopian future or a nonfiction work that explores real-world impacts, this is a chance to discuss how literature can shape our understanding of the environment. And don’t forget—later in the festival, John Vaillant, whose work delves deeply into these themes, will be sharing his own perspectives in a special event.
Build Community: This event is not just about reading; it’s about connecting with others who care deeply about the future of our planet. Whether you’re an environmental activist, a concerned citizen, or simply curious about the topic, this is a space to share ideas and find inspiration in the power of words.
Why Attend?
No Pressure: Whether you’re well-versed in climate literature or just beginning to explore these themes, this event is open to everyone and offers a relaxed, judgment-free environment.
Community: Meet others who are passionate about environmental issues, and discover new books and authors who are bringing attention to the most urgent challenges of our time.
Inspiration: Learn how different authors approach the topic of climate change and find new ways to engage with this critical issue through literature.
So, bring the book that’s opened your eyes to the realities of climate change, settle in with fellow readers, and let’s explore the power of literature to inspire action and understanding. Whether it’s a gripping novel, a compelling piece of journalism, or a visionary work of nonfiction, we can’t wait to hear how it’s shaped your view of the world.
Florentino Solano and Natalia Toledo talk to Yásnaya Elena Aguilar
The Power of Indigenous Language and Culture
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The Wild Detectives
Join us for a compelling evening as Yásnaya Elena Aguilar, a leading Mixe linguist and cultural advocate, moderates a conversation with two of Mexico’s most prominent indigenous voices, Natalia Toledo and Florentino Solano. This discussion will focus on the profound importance of indigenous languages and cultures, and their enduring influence on both traditional and contemporary Mexican society.
In this conversation, Toledo, a celebrated Zapotec poet and translator, will share her insights into how language shapes cultural expression and identity, drawing from her rich heritage to create poetry that resonates on both a personal and communal level. Solano, a Tlapanec writer and translator, will delve into the role of storytelling in preserving and transmitting the knowledge and traditions of his people, emphasizing the power of indigenous narratives in the broader literary landscape.
Moderated by Aguilar, the discussion will highlight the urgent need to preserve indigenous languages as living, evolving entities that carry the histories, philosophies, and worldviews of their communities. This event underscores the significance of these languages not only for those who speak them but for the cultural diversity and richness they contribute to the world.
Simultaneous interpretation from Spanish to English available
Followed by a conversation with screenwriter Guillermo Arriaga
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The Texas Theatre (Main)
In honor of acclaimed screenwriter Guillermo Arriaga attending this year’s Hay Festival Forum Dallas, we’re thrilled to present a special screening of his groundbreaking film Amores perros.
If you already have a ticket for the conversation with Guillermo Arriaga, you don't need to purchase a ticket to access the screening.
The Dallas region, like many parts of Texas, faced an unprecedented threat as wildfires, fueled by rising temperatures and drought conditions, tore through the landscape. The devastation echoed the alarming trends seen globally, as wildfires become more frequent, intense, and destructive. Canadian writer and journalist John Vaillant will discuss these events, highlighting how they serve as a stark warning for a hotter, more flammable world.
In his book Fire Weather: A True Story from a Hotter World (winner of the Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction 2023), Vaillant delves into the intertwined histories of the oil industry and climate science, the unparalleled destruction caused by modern wildfires, and the lives irrevocably altered by these disasters. In his recent writing for The New York Times, he draws particular attention to the fires in Texas, exploring how regions historically less affected by such disasters, are now on the front lines of this growing environmental crisis.
John Vaillant is a best-selling author and freelance writer whose work has appeared in The New Yorker, The Atlantic, National Geographic, and The Guardian, among others. In addition to the Baillie Gifford Prize, Fire Weather has won Canada's Shaughnessy Cohen Prize and was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. A #1 bestseller in Canada, Fire Weather was also named one of the ten best books of 2023 by The New York Times, among many other prominent publications in Europe and North America.
Join us for an evening of critical discussion on how we must prepare for the escalating dangers of a changing climate, with a focus on the fires that have brought this reality home to the broader Texas region.
Book Club: Stories of Pride - Exploring LGBTQ+ Narratives Through Literature
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Apprentice Creative Space
Join us for a special edition of the Book Club, where we celebrate and explore LGBTQ+ stories through the power of literature.
Books have always been a gateway to understanding and empathy, and LGBTQ+ literature is no exception. Whether you belong to the community or have a loved one who does, this event is an opportunity to read, reflect, and discuss the stories that have shaped your understanding of sexual orientation and gender identity. Bring a book that has resonated with you, one that has opened your eyes or touched your heart, and join us for an evening of quiet reading and meaningful conversation.
What to Expect:
Read in Silence: Bring a book that delves into LGBTQ+ themes, whether it’s a coming-of-age novel, a memoir of self-discovery, or a powerful piece of fiction that offers insight into the LGBTQ+ experience. Spend an hour immersed in the pages of a story that speaks to identity, love, and acceptance.
Share and Discuss: After our hour of silent reading, we’ll gather to share our thoughts and experiences. Whether you’ve been moved by the emotional depth Shuggie Bain or the evocative storytelling found in Dahlia de la Cruz’s latest works, this is your chance to explore how literature helps us understand different sexual orientations and identities.
Build Community: This event is about more than just reading—it’s about creating a safe and supportive space where everyone is welcome. Whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, this is a chance to connect with others who share your passion for these important narratives.
Why Attend?
No Pressure: Whether you’re an avid reader of LGBTQ+ literature or just starting to explore these stories, this event is open to everyone and offers a relaxed, judgment-free environment.
Community: Meet others who value the power of stories to educate, inspire, and create understanding across differences.
Inspiration: Discover new books and authors that celebrate diversity and offer fresh perspectives on identity, love, and acceptance.
So, bring the book that helped you see the world through a new lens, and join us for a unique evening of reading and discussion. Whether it’s a classic like Giovanni’s Room, a modern memoir, or a young adult novel that speaks to the challenges of coming out, we can’t wait to hear your thoughts and share in the power of these stories.
Legendary guitarist and producer behind Roxy Music
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The Texas Theatre (Upstairs)
Join us for an evening with legendary guitarist, songwriter, and producer Phil Manzanera, as he takes the stage for an intimate performance and conversation. Best known as the lead guitarist of the influential band Roxy Music, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of rock music from the 1970s to today. His innovative guitar work on classic albums like For Your Pleasure, Stranded, and Avalon helped define Roxy Music's unique blend of art rock, glam, and sophisticated pop. In addition to his work with Roxy Music, Manzanera has had a successful solo career, releasing critically acclaimed albums such as Diamond Head and K-Scope, which showcase his diverse musical influences, ranging from rock and progressive rock to Latin and world music. He has also been a key collaborator with artists like Brian Eno, David Gilmour, and Pink Floyd, contributing to some of the most memorable music of the past few decades. This special event will feature a live performance by Manzanera, where he will play selections from his extensive career, as well as share stories from his time with Roxy Music, his solo projects, and his collaborations with some of the biggest names in music. He talk with Paul Slavens.
Journalists from El País and The Dallas Morning News in conversation
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The Wild Detectives
As the general elections approach, the role of the press in combating disinformation and providing accurate coverage has never been more critical. Join leading journalists María Ramos Pacheco, a distinguished voice in covering politics, social justice, and human rights, and Luis Pablo Beauregard from El País, one of the most influential newspapers in the Spanish-speaking world, as they discuss the complexities of covering elections in a time when misinformation is rampant.
With its deep roots in Spain and a significant presence across Latin America and the U.S., El País offers a critical perspective on international affairs and the political landscape, while The Dallas Morning News, represented by Ramos Pacheco, has long shaped public discourse in North Texas, known for its investigative reporting and commitment to community-focused journalism.
Moderated by Summer Lopez, Senior Director of Free Expression Programs at PEN America, an organization dedicated to defending and celebrating free expression and protecting the rights of writers and journalists worldwide, this panel will explore the challenges, responsibilities, and pressures journalists face while ensuring that the truth prevails in an increasingly polarized environment.
Guillermo Arriaga in conversation with Laura Hiros
Acclaimed screenwriter and author behind Amores Perros and Babel
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The Texas Theatre (Main)
Join us for an evening with celebrated Mexican writer, screenwriter, and director Guillermo Arriaga. Known for his masterful storytelling and complex, non-linear narratives, he has left an indelible mark on both literature and cinema. His work, often exploring themes of fate, violence, and the deep interconnectedness of human lives, has garnered international acclaim.
Arriaga is perhaps best known for his collaborations with director Alejandro González Iñárritu, co-writing the screenplays for the award-winning films Amores Perros (2000), 21 Grams (2003), and Babel (2006). These films, renowned for their intricate narrative structures and emotional depth, have earned him numerous accolades, including a BAFTA for Best Original Screenplay for Babel.
Beyond his work in film, Arriaga is a distinguished novelist. His books, such as The Night Buffalo ('El búfalo de la noche') and The Savage ('El salvaje'), showcase his distinctive voice and his ability to delve into the darker aspects of the human experience. His stories are raw, intense, and unforgettable, reflecting his belief in the power of narrative to illuminate the complexities of life.
Arriaga has also made his mark as a director with his debut film The Burning Plain (2008), starring Charlize Theron and Kim Basinger, which continues his exploration of the themes that define his work.
In conversation with Laura Hiros, local film critic and journalist with over 20 years of experience.
Simultaneous interpretation from Spanish to English available
This ticket grants you access to the 3 PM screening of Amores Perros before the conversation event.
Bruna Dantas Lobato and Douglas Stuart talk to Natalie Green
Presented by the National Book Foundation
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The Texas Theatre (Upstairs)
Join us for an engaging conversation between Booker Prize-winning author and National Book Award Finalist Douglas Stuart and acclaimed Brazilian writer and translator and National Book Award Winner Bruna Dantas Lobato. This event will be moderated by Natalie Green, the National Book Foundation's Director of Programs and Partnerships.
Douglas Stuart, known for his powerful debut novel Shuggie Bain, which won the 2020 Booker Prize and was a Finalist for the National Book Award for Fiction, brings a unique voice to contemporary literature, exploring themes of poverty, addiction, and LGBTQ+ identity, continued in his international bestselling sophomore novel Young Mungo.
Bruna Dantas Lobato, an emerging force in literature and translation, has gained recognition for her poignant explorations of migration, identity, and the immigrant experience, bridging the gap between Brazilian and American literary cultures. She won the 2023 National Book Award for Translated Literature for her translation of Stênio Gardel's The Words That Remain, and her debut novel, Blue Light Hours, is out on October 15 from Grove Atlantic.
In this conversation, Stuart and Lobato will discuss their respective works, the intersections of their literary themes, and the broader role of storytelling in addressing social issues. Green will guide this discussion, offering insights into the National Book Foundation's mission to celebrate and promote exceptional literature.
Get ready to move your feet at one of the most legendary parties in town —Afro Perreo at The Wild Detectives! Join us in our backyard as Colombian DJ Elkin teams up with El Nick to bring you an electrifying night of music and dance. This dynamic duo blends the infectious rhythms of Mexican and Afro-Latin beats, creating an irresistible atmosphere that’s all about having fun and dancing the night away.
Afro Perreo is more than just a party; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and the joy of movement. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking to experience something new, this event is sure to leave you buzzing with energy and excitement.
A sonic road trip that documents violence again land and bodies (with Valeria Luiselli)
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The Texas Theatre (Main)
Valeria Luiselli, Leonardo Heiblum and Ricardo Giraldo will present a selection from their work in progress, Echoes From The Borderlands, a sound piece that documents the histories of violence against land and bodies in the US-Mexico borderlands. It works like a sonic roadtrip that begins in the pounding waves of the Pacific Ocean in the Tijuana /San Diego border, and moves eastward throughout 24 hours —from sunrise to sunrise— until it reaches the wetlands of the Texan coast. Through the merging of narratives, soundscapes, voices, melodies, rhythms, archival recordings, and sound constellations, the piece connects issues that have marked the borderlands, such as the genocide of native peoples, extractivism, nuclear testing, migration, femicide, vigilantism, human trafficking, and mass detention. These stories of plundering and exploitation, however, are also met with stories of resilience and resistance. Following the presentation Luiselli, Heilblum and Giraldo will participate in a developmental discussion about the piece.
Echoes from the Borderland is being developed in partnership with Dia Art Foundation.
Valeria Luiselli is the award winning author of Faces in the Crowd (2013), Tell Me How It Ends (2017) and Lost Children Archive (2019). Her work has been translated to over 30 languages and she became a Macarthur Fellow in 2020.
Leonardo Heilblum is an award-winning composer, producer and sound artist who has composed music for over 50 feature films. He collaborates regularly with Philip Glass, Patti Smith, and musicians from all over the world, mixing classical and indigenous instruments with field recordings.
Ricardo Giraldo works in sound, film promotion, contemporary classical music, audiovisual media and exhibit design. He is the director of the Podcast Division of La Corriente del Golfo, Diego Luna and Gael Garcia Bernal’s production company.
Day Pass - Your All-Access Experience Unlock a full day of literary and cultural immersion with the Hay Festival Dallas Day Pass. This pass grants you access to all ticketed and free events, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the inspiring discussions, panels, and performances. Enjoy exclusive entry to The Wild Detectives bar, where you can unwind and enjoy a selection of drinks in a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere. Indulge in a special lunch that includes a taste of Sketches of Spain—featuring a delicious appetizer and authentic paella to savor as part of your festival experience. Whether you're diving into thought-provoking conversations or soaking up the festive ambiance, the Day Pass offers everything you need for a perfect festival day.
This event has taken place
This ticket needs to be redeemed for a wristband at The Wild Detectives anytime from Friday at 5 p.m. until the end of activities on Sunday, the 13th. You will need the wristband to access the activities.
Live Interactive Storytelling & Music with Percussion Things
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Whose Books
Experience the vibrant rhythms of Latin, Caribbean, and African cultures with a live, interactive storytelling session by Percussion Things. This lively event features music and stories that celebrate heritage and community, complemented by a curated selection of books that highlight the beauty of music and storytelling.
This event has taken place
Supported in part by the City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture
Book Club: Voices for Justice - Exploring Racial Justice Through Literature
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Apprentice Creative Space
Join us for a powerful edition of the Book Club, where we explore the urgent and vital themes of racial justice through literature.
In a time when conversations about racial justice are more important than ever, books offer us a way to deepen our understanding, confront difficult truths, and inspire change. This event invites you to bring a book that addresses issues of race, justice, and equality—whether through fiction, nonfiction, or personal memoir—and join others in an evening of silent reading and thoughtful discussion.
What to Expect:
Read in Silence: Bring a book that tackles the complex issues of racial justice, whether it’s a novel that sheds light on systemic racism, a historical account, or a contemporary work of nonfiction. Spend an hour immersed in stories that challenge, educate, and inspire. You might choose a book like His Name is George Floyd by Robert Samuels and Tolu Olorunnipa, who will be sharing their insights at the festival, or another work that resonates with you.
Share and Discuss: After our hour of silent reading, we’ll gather to discuss the books we’ve chosen. How does the book address racial justice? What emotions and ideas does it evoke? This is an opportunity to share your thoughts and engage in a meaningful conversation about how literature can illuminate the fight for justice and equality.
Build Community: This event is not just about reading; it’s about connecting with others who are passionate about racial justice. Whether you’re an activist, a concerned citizen, or simply seeking to educate yourself on these crucial issues, this is a space to share ideas, learn from one another, and find solidarity in the power of words.
Why Attend?
No Pressure: Whether you’re deeply involved in the fight for racial justice or just beginning to explore these themes, this event is open to everyone and offers a relaxed, judgment-free environment.
Community: Meet others who care about racial justice, and discover new books and authors who are bringing attention to these urgent issues.
Inspiration: Learn how different authors, including Robert Samuels and Tolu Olorunnipa, approach the topic of racial justice, and find new ways to engage with this critical issue through literature.
So, bring the book that has opened your eyes to the realities of racial injustice, settle in with fellow readers, and let’s explore the power of literature to drive change and inspire action. Whether it’s a novel, a biography, or a groundbreaking work of journalism, we can’t wait to hear how it has impacted your perspective.
Heather Cleary, Dahlia de La Cerda and Dolores Reyes
Latin American Narratives in the U.S.:
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The Wild Detectives
Join us for an illuminating panel discussion featuring Heather Cleary, Dahlia de la Cerda, and Dolores Reyes as they explore the dynamic landscape of Latin American narratives in the U.S. This event brings together three influential voices whose work intersects across translation, feminism, and the vibrant cultural exchange between Latin America and the United States.
Heather Cleary, an esteemed translator, has played a pivotal role in bringing Latin American literature to English-speaking audiences, translating works by celebrated authors and helping to bridge cultural divides. Her expertise in translation will offer insights into the challenges and rewards of making Latin American narratives accessible to a broader audience.
Dahlia de la Cerda, a Mexican writer and feminist activist, is known for her powerful stories and essays that tackle issues of gender violence, inequality, and social justice. Her work resonates deeply with the feminist movement and highlights the struggles and resilience of women in Latin America, making her a crucial voice in contemporary Latin American literature.
Dolores Reyes, the Argentine author of the critically acclaimed novel Eartheater ('Cometierra'), brings a unique blend of magical realism and social commentary to her storytelling. Her work delves into the harsh realities of life in Argentina, exploring themes of violence, poverty, and the supernatural through the lens of a young girl with extraordinary abilities.
This conversation will delve into how these three voices contribute to the ongoing dialogue about feminism, cultural identity, and the power of storytelling in Latin America. It’s an essential event for anyone interested in the cross-cultural currents that shape the literary landscape in the U.S. and beyond.
Simultaneous interpretation from Spanish to English available
Toluse Olorunnipa and Robert Samuels in conversation with Katrice Hardy
Pulitzer Prize-winning authors of His Name Is George Floyd on racial justice
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The Texas Theatre (Upstairs)
Join us for an enlightening evening with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists Toluse Olorunnipa and Robert Samuels as they discuss their book, His Name is George Floyd, and their careers covering race and justice in America. Moderated by Katrice Hardy, the trailblazing Executive Editor of The Dallas Morning News, this event offers a powerful conversation on the legacy of George Floyd, Black Lives Matter, and ongoing racial inequality.
Olorunnipa and Samuels' deeply researched work explores Floyd's life and the systemic injustices his death exposed. Together, they will share insights into their writing process and the broader impact of their journalism.
Book Club: The Many Faces of Identity - Exploring Cultural and Personal Narratives
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Apprentice Creative Space
Join us for a special edition of the Book Club in Dallas, Texas, where we delve into the rich and complex themes of identity through literature.
In a city as diverse as Dallas, where many people are migrants, descendants of migrants, or constantly exposed to cultures different from their own, the exploration of identity is both personal and profound. This event invites you to bring a book that speaks to the themes of identity—whether cultural, personal, or collective—and join others in an evening of silent reading and meaningful discussion.
What to Expect:
Read in Silence: Bring a book that explores the multifaceted nature of identity, whether it’s a novel about the immigrant experience, a memoir of cultural discovery, or a collection of essays that delve into what it means to belong. Spend an hour immersed in stories that resonate with your own experiences or open your eyes to new perspectives.
Share and Discuss: After our hour of silent reading, we’ll gather to share our thoughts and reflections. How does the book you’ve chosen explore the concept of identity? What does it say about belonging, culture, or self-discovery? Whether you’re reading a work by Valeria Luiselli, Yasnaya Aguilar, or Natalia Toledo—who will also be featured in festival events—or another author whose work speaks to these themes, this is your chance to discuss the diverse ways in which literature tackles the question of who we are.
Build Community: This event is not just about reading; it’s about connecting with others who share your interest in the rich tapestry of identity. Whether you’re exploring your own cultural roots, learning about others, or simply curious about the complexities of identity in today’s world, this is a space to share ideas and find common ground.
Why Attend?
No Pressure: Whether you’re deeply engaged in literature about identity or just beginning to explore these themes, this event is open to everyone and offers a relaxed, judgment-free environment.
Community: Meet others in Dallas who are passionate about exploring the many facets of identity through literature, and discover new books and authors that resonate with your experiences.
Inspiration: Learn how different authors, including festival guests like Valeria Luiselli, Yasnaya Aguilar, and Natalia Toledo, bring their unique voices to the topic of identity, and find new ways to engage with this important theme through reading.
So, bring the book that has helped you understand your own identity or introduced you to a different one, settle in with fellow readers, and let’s explore the power of literature to reflect and shape our understanding of who we are. Whether it’s a novel, a memoir, or a work of poetry, we can’t wait to hear how it has touched your life.
Mariana Enriquez in conversation with Sarah Hepola
Haunting tales of horror and Argentine reality
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The Texas Theatre (Main)
Argentine author Mariana Enriquez discusses her latest work and the haunting themes that permeate her writing. Moderated by bestselling author and journalist Sarah Hepola, this conversation will delve into Enriquez's new book, A Sunny Place for Shady People, along with her celebrated collections Things We Lost in the Fire and The Dangers of Smoking in Bed
Mariana Enriquez is known for her ability to weave horror and the supernatural with the stark realities of contemporary Argentine life. Her stories explore violence, death, and the dark undercurrents of society, offering readers a unique blend of literary horror and social commentary. In A Sunny Place for Shady People, she continues to push the boundaries of genre, and this conversation will offer insights into her creative process and the themes that drive her work.
Sarah Hepola, whose memoir Blackout: Remembering the Things I Drank to Forget became a New York Times bestseller, will guide the discussion. With her experience in tackling complex and personal subjects, she is the perfect moderator to explore the depths of Enriquez's dark and enthralling literary world.
This event is a must for fans of literary horror, those curious about contemporary Latin American fiction, and anyone interested in how stories can reflect and distort the realities we live in.
Simultaneous interpretation from Spanish to English available
Imelda García, David Marcial Pérez and Maggie Prosser in conversation
A Deep Dive into the Global Fentanyl Crisis
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The Wild Detectives
Join us for a critical discussion on the global fentanyl crisis, the leading cause of death among young Americans. This panel will examine the crisis accross three regions —Mexico, the U.S., and China— Focusing on production, trafficking, and public health challenges.
David Marcial Pérez, from El País will disccus Mexico's role as a major producer and transit point for fentanyl. Maggie Prosserand Imelda García, journalists from The Dallas Morning News behind the Deadly Fake series, will highlight the drug's devastating impact on Dallas and the U.S. as a whole.
Together, they will explore the complexities of the crisis and the urgent need for solutions.
Renowned journalist Jim Schutze on his new novel Pontiac
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The Wild Detectives
Join award-winning journalist and author Jim Schutze as he discusses his latest book, Pontiac, in an engaging conversation with political consultant and writer Jason Stanford. Schutze, known for his incisive investigations into power and race dynamics in Texas, will delve into the themes of his new work, exploring historical and contemporary issues of political imbalance and social tensions. Stanford, co-author of Forget the Alamo, brings his expertise on the intersection of Texas politics, history, and culture, offering a complementary yet distinct perspective on journalism and nonfiction writing.
