TCCL News & Events

Art is smart, and smart is good. But is all art created equal? Find out as “Novel Talk: Smart Conversations for Serious Readers” examines Michael Chabon’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay” in November to complement the Tulsa Library Trust’s 2008 Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award.

As a part of its popular “Novel Talk” series, Central Library’s Readers’ Library will explore the topic “Pop Quiz! Is Pop Culture for Mensa or Morons?” on Nov. 18 at 6:30 p.m. at Central Library, Aaronson Auditorium, Fourth Street and Denver Avenue. Join a distinguished panel of experts as they discuss high vs. low art, using Chabon’s epic novel of love, loss, betrayal … and comic books.

Scott Gregory, producer, KWGS 89.5 “Studio Tulsa” and host of “All This Jazz,” will moderate as panelists examine this topic and other culturally relevant issues related to the novel. Panelists are: Bridget Cowlishaw, associate professor of languages and literature, Northeastern State University; W. Anthony O’Seland, pop culture theorist; and Linda Reynolds, art therapist.

Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Circle Cinema, Dwelling Spaces, Garden Deva, Mammoth Comics and Urban Furnishings are co-sponsoring the free program.

While at the Central Library, view the exhibit “The Jewish Graphic Novel,” on display Nov. 1-30 on the second floor. On loan from the Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art, this exhibit features panels reproduced from graphic novels, along with text explaining the history and importance of comics and graphic novels as a means of expression.

After viewing the exhibit and participating in the enlightening “Novel Talk” discussion, make plans to meet Chabon, winner of the 2008 Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award, at a free public presentation and book signing at 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 6 at Central Library.

Call 596-7977 or visit the library’s Web site at www.tulsalibrary.org for more details about “Novel Talk,” the exhibit or the Helmerich award.