The internationally renowned Charleston Literary Festival kicks off on Friday, Nov. 5, 2021, with three New York Times best-selling authors; Walter Isaacson, Carl Zimmer and Jean Hanff Korelitz, whose books examine topics such as gene editing, the meaning of life and intellectual property.
As the festival’s academic partner, the College of Charleston and its Alumni Association are providing financial, promotional and logistical support, including hosting several events on campus at the Sottile Theatre and the Rita Liddy Hollings Science Center. Sessions include virtual and in-person events.
Authors will share stories and insights on compelling issues in science, human rights and feminism with a range of moderators from journalists, historians and authors as well as CofC faculty including Provost Suzanne Austin, Honors College Dean Elizabeth Myer-Bernstien, School of the Arts Dean Edward Hart ’88 and Kameelah Martin, dean of the Graduate School of the University of Charleston, S.C.
The festival runs from Nov. 5 to Nov to Nov. 14, 2021, and offers book lovers the opportunity to engage with superstars of the literary world. For the first time, this year’s festival will include a special celebration of The Booker Prize, including featuring three of the 2021 long and short-listed authors; Patricia Lockwood; Maggie Shipstead; and Nathan Harris.
CofC English Professor Scott Peeples is among this year’s featured authors. Peeples will discuss the mystery of Edgar Allan Poe and his latest book The Man of the Crowd. Peeples’ research on Poe is extensive. In a 2018 Ted-Ed recording, he says “Poe’s macabre and innovative stories of gothic horror have left a timeless mark on literature.”
View the full 2021 program on the Charleston Literary Festival website.
