Latrobe City Libraries are offering three author talks to round out the year. Celebrating music, commemorating the bravery of war and highlighting the importance of human rights, the author talks could not be more different.
Bidjara and Birri-Gubba Juru woman, Dr Jackie Huggins AM, is a leading Indigenous academic, author and champion for reconciliation. She will be in conversation and - in remembrance - with writer Claire Halliday to discuss her latest book Jack of Hearts via Zoom on Tuesday 8 November from 6.30pm. This moving, affectionate portrait of her father tells a compelling account of courage in wartime and creates a better understanding of the sacrifices made by our soldiers.
Local musician and journalist, Joe Matera, will take participants backstage with some of rock's biggest names when he discusses his book Backstage Pass. Joe's ability to befriend and elicit stories from musicians renowned as 'difficult' has allowed him to get behind the facade of some of the biggest names in rock and pop. Joe will be at the Traralgon Library on Wednesday 9 November from 6.00pm.
To mark 16 Days of Activism, Human Rights Watch's Australia Director, Elaine Pearson will be in conversation on Monday 28 November via Zoom from 6.30pm. Elaine's new non-fiction book, Chasing Wrongs and Rights tells a story of a life-long interest in human rights. It's a story that started as a personal mission - an unwavering commitment that continues today.
Mayor of Latrobe City, Councillor Kellie O'Callaghan said author talks were more than just discussing books.
"Listening to an author talk about the themes in their works, their characters, their stories often means we are talking about life and all its fears, failures, wonders and wins. These three talks demonstrate just how diverse subject matters can be - war, music and activism, but at their core, each one of them is about humanity.
"We are fortunate to partner with Myli Community Library and East Gippsland Library Service to access writers who otherwise would not appear at our libraries, due to distance. Writer and journalist Claire Halliday will interview the authors with incisive questions to draw out fascinating responses.
"While Zoom talks are a fantastic way of being able to enjoy a talk in the comfort of your own home, coming to a library to see an author in person is always a treat. Joe Matera will be at Traralgon Library and if we're lucky, he may even play a little guitar between anecdotes at his event.
"Make sure you book your tickets and enjoy this diverse range of talks," Cr O'Callaghan said
