The James Jones Literary Society is hosting its 2015 Symposium at Wilkes University on Nov. 5-7. The society honors the life and work of American novelist James Jones, author of From Here to Eternity and The Thin Red Line among other works. The symposium features panel discussions and book signings by nationally established authors and writing fellowship winners. The symposium is presented in partnership with the Wilkes University Graduate Creative Writing Program.
The conference includes a fiction workshop open to members of the community. It runs from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, in Kirby Hall, Room 108, on the Wilkes campus. The workshop is presented by Wilkes University Creative Writing Program authors Taylor Polites and Barbara Taylor, who were also 2015 James Jones First Novel Fellowship judges. Polites is a Wilkes faculty member and author of The Rebel Wife. Taylor is a Scranton resident and author of Sing in the Morning, Cry at Night, a novel set in early 20th century Scranton.
Other symposium events open to the public include:
Friday, Nov. 6
- 2-2:45 p.m. The James Jones Legacy Panel Discussion
Kirby Salon, Kirby Hall, Wilkes University
Overview of James Jones Literary Society programs, including the James Jones First Novel Fellowship, Eastern Illinois University Lecture Series, “The Valentine” essay contest and Lincoln Trails Writing Award. Panelists are Kaylie Jones, Warren Mason and Donald Sackrider, with Bonnie Culver as moderator. - 3-4:15 p.m. Where Are They Now?
Kirby Salon, Kirby Hall, Wilkes University
Former James Jones First Novel Fellowship winners discuss what the prize means to them and current projects. Panelists are Robin Oliveira, Leslie Schwartz, Greg Hrbek, Stephen Policoff, Louise Wareham and Mary Kay Zuravleff, with Kaylie Jones as moderator. - 4:30-5:15 p.m. Keynote Presentation: Cowardice: A Brief History
Breiseth Hall, Room 106, 137-159 S. Franklin St., Wilkes University
Chris Walsh discusses his academic study of cowardice that draws upon fiction and non-fiction sources including The Thin Red Line. A question and answer session follows the presentation. - 5:15-6:30 p.m. Author Reception and Book Signings
Breiseth Hall, Room 106, 137-159 S. Franklin St., Wilkes University
Book signings with James Jones First Novel Fellows and Chris Walsh, with a wine and cheese reception.
For more information and to register for the events, please call Joyce Anzalone at 570-408-4547.
