By Samantha Marcotte, Features Contributor
The Canisius College Contemporary Writers Series will welcome award-winning poet and best-selling memoirist Mary Karr on Oct. 5, 2021. Karr is the author of three New York Times best-selling memoirs “The Liars’ Club,” “Cherry” and “Lit.” In addition, she published five poetry collections and a book of her own writing advice titled “The Art of Memoir.” Karr has also collaborated with Rodney Crowell, Norah Jones, Lucinda Williams and others as a songwriter.
Each of Karr’s memoirs focuses on a different stage of her life. Her first memoir which put her on the map as a writer — “The Liars’ Club” — is about her childhood in Texas. The book is critically acclaimed and is now an annual “best book” for The Times after holding a place on their best-sellers list for over a year. Her next award winning memoir, “Cherry,” details her eventful teenage years. Her latest memoir, “Lit,” describes her battle with alcoholism. “The Art of Memoir” is a book of writing advice blended together with more stories and life lessons Karr has picked up over the years. Her unique experiences and talented writing make any of her work worth reading.
Karr is a sought-after speaker. She is known to interact with her audiences and hold engaging Q&A sessions. Karr will speak at 7 p.m. in the Montante Cultural Center. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. All in-person guests must wear masks. The event will also be livestreamed: email Mick Cochrane at cochrane@canisius.edu to get the streaming link.
For more information on the event, you can visit www.canisius.edu/academics/programs/creative-writing/contemporary-writers-series or email series coordinator Mick Cochrane, cochrane@canisius.edu.