Tickets on sale now for Colson Whitehead on Oct. 3

Wednesday, July 31, 2024

Known for his versatile, genre-defying storytelling, Colson Whitehead has captivated readers for 25 years.

With two Pulitzer Prizes for fiction, a MacArthur Fellowship, a National Book Award and a National Humanities Medal, it’s no surprise to see his work among the "New York Times'" recent top 10 books of the 21st century.

On Oct. 3, Whitehead will take the stage at the H. Louise & H.E. “Ed” Cobb Speaker Series to discuss the intersection of writing, history and culture. The event is the largest annual fundraiser for the Friends of the OSU Library, which provides support for the university’s libraries.

“For this series, we look for prominent authors and great storytellers,” Dean of Libraries Sheila Johnson said. “Not only is Colson renown professionally, but he is also known for thoughtful and inspiring presentations that are candid, warm and humorous, a combination our guests are sure to enjoy.”

Whitehead is the bestselling author of 11 works of fiction and nonfiction including the highly acclaimed “The Underground Railroad” and “The Nickel Boys.” His most recent novels, “Harlem Shuffle” and “Crook Manifesto,” are the first two installments of a trilogy set on the streets of New York City in the 1960s and '70s.

His work has also been adapted for TV and film, including Amazon’s limited TV series, “Underground Railroad,” MGM Orion’s film adaptation of “The Nickel Boys,” releasing later this year, and HBO Max’s TV series “Sag Harbor,” which is in development.

The Cobb Speaker Series will be held at ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center in Stillwater. Ticket holders will enjoy dinner, complimentary wine service, and a keynote and Q&A with Whitehead. The event closes with a book signing, and selections of Whitehead’s work will be available for purchase.

Tickets are on sale now, but seating is limited. Individual tickets are $125, and half the cost is a tax-deductible gift to the Friends of the OSU Library. Tables and sponsorship opportunities are available. Call 405-744-6322 or visit friends.library.okstate.edu to purchase tickets.