Community members are invited to join in a Zoom author talk with Melbourne writer Anna Spargo-Ryan hosted by Latrobe Libraries on Monday 10 October from 6.30pm at the Traralgon Library.
In conversation with journalist Claire Halliday, Anna will discuss her memoir A Kind of Magic which looks at the relationships between time, mental illness, and our brain as the keeper of our stories.
The author talk will coincide with World Mental Health Day, which aims to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health.
Anna's insights into her own experiences reveal her personal interrogation of reality - and her discovery of how it can be fractured, and why it's so hard to put it back together.
A Kind of Magic blends meticulous research with vivid snapshots of the stuff that breaks us and the magic of finding ourselves again.
Latrobe City Mayor, Councillor Kellie O'Callaghan said that having the opportunity for an event like this to be livestreamed was a way to bring people together.
"We have been offering Zoom author talks since 2020, and they have been a wonderful opportunity to hear from authors who otherwise may not be able to visit our libraries - those who live interstate or even overseas. This session, because it is part of our Positive Ageing Festival, was perfect for the hybrid online and in-person model.
"While people can still choose to tune in from the comfort of their own home, having the event screened at Traralgon Library will provide an alternative for keen readers to come together and hear from the author. We are also aware that some people may not have reliable internet or a device to stream a Zoom talk.
"The subject matter is fascinating, and we're excited to listen to the conversation between Anna and Claire, and to understand more about the complexities of mental health and our brains," Cr O'Callaghan said.
The online event will be screened at Traralgon Library to mark World Mental Health Day and is part of the Latrobe City Positive Ageing Festival. Tickets are free but bookings are essential. Book at Eventbrite https://online-author-talk-anna-spargo-ryan.eventbrite.com.au or at your local library.
