About A Novel Experience
In our fast-paced, information-heavy world, carving out time for fiction can be seen as a luxury. But novels aren’t just for pleasure – they can challenge our perspectives, unravel global complexities, and nuance our understanding of international affairs. Every other month, the International Relations Council invites you to A Novel Experience: curl up with a novel of the world or about the world before meeting with other bibliophiles to share your insights and curiosities. We’ll have the help of subject-matter experts during our discussions and welcome your active involvement in this international literary journey. Individuals of all backgrounds, interests, and perspectives are welcome – we just ask that you bring an open mind, thoughtful questions, and common courtesy. Registration is free but helps us with planning.
Do you have a recommendation for a book to add to the A Novel Experience lineup? Reach out!
Upcoming Selections
All programs will take place from 7-8 p.m. CT on Zoom
Wednesday, December 14, 2022: Frankenstein in Baghdad by Ahmed Saadawi (Iraq)
Tuesday, March 7, 2023: Where the Wild Ladies Are by Aoko Matsuda (Japan)
Tuesday, May 30, 2023: A Burning by Megha Majumdar (India)
Tuesday, August 29, 2023: Open Water by Caleb Azumah Nelson (England/Ghana)
Tuesday, November 28, 2023: Homeland Elegies by Ayad Akhtar (Pakistan/US)
Previous Selections
Wednesday, October 12, 2022: My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante (Italy)
Wednesday, July 20, 2022: Fever Dream by Samanta Schweblin (Argentina)
Wednesday, March 23, 2022: Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata (Japan)
Wednesday, May 18, 2022: Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Nigeria)
Monday, August 16, 2021: Leaving Tangier by Tahar Ben Jelloun
Monday, June 21, 2021: The Shape of the Ruins by Juan Gabriel Vasquez
Monday, April 19, 2021: Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk
Monday, February 22, 2021: Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahari