Join National Book Award–honored authors Ben Fountain (Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk, 2012 Fiction Finalist; Rasputin Swims the Potomac) and T. Geronimo Johnson (Welcome to Braggsville, 2015 Fiction Finalist; The Occidental Book of the Dead) to celebrate their new 2026 releases—two books that tackle the contradictions and nuances of the South, and the nation, with humor and heart. The authors will read from their books and gather for a conversation on how and why Southern stories connect with readers everywhere.

Moderated by Dr. Elizabeth M. Beard, Chancellor of Louisiana State University of Alexandria.

Free copies of the authors’ books will be distributed to attendees while supplies last.

Presented in partnership with the Rapides Parish Library.

Register here.