A Bubble of One’s Own

No book talk for you!

Looking for something literary to do in Berkeley, California? Well, on Wednesday you could have gone to hear George Saunders talk about Liberation Day, his newly published collection of short stories. As a bonus he would be “in-conversation” with Samin Nosrat, the lady behind the cookbook and Netflix series Salt Fat Acid Heat.

Saunders’ fiction doesn’t sound like it’s my cup of tea. But who am I to begrudge a guy trying to hawk his short stories?

The event, organized by Berkeley Arts & Letters, was held at the First Presbyterian Church on Dana Street. It was open to the public, but not just anyone could attend. There were certain, uh, requirements.

Please note:

*This is a ticketed, in-person event. Each ticket includes a hardcover copy of Liberation Day.

(. . .)

*Safety: ID and proof of full vaccination, including booster, will be required at the door. Masks will be required throughout the duration of the event and capacity will be limited to allow indoor distancing.

The same restrictions will apply when Michael Pollan talks with Dacher Keltner on January 29, 2023.

Masks today, masks tomorrow, masks forever!

In lieu of outro music, here’s another George discussing his first novel before playing a little game of Get the Guests. No masking required!