What is "What is the What"?

Have you read the book, What is the What, by Dave Eggers? It tells the true story of one of the Sudan's "lost boys" who survived the terrible civil war that has raged in that country for over 25 years. The book has been chosen as the One Book One Marin's read for this year, and there are some great events to go along with the book.

I went to the launch party at Book Passage last week and was happy to see lots of high school students in the audience. Dave Eggers made a point to talk with them - you can tell he has a special affinity for young people. With that in mind, here are some events you might want to check out. For more, go to the One Book One Marin Events web page.

Tuesday, February 24, 7:00 p.m.
“Lost Boys of Sudan” Movie Screening & Conversation
Movie director Jon Shenk and Santino Majok Chuor, one of the documentary’s central characters, will lead a discussion about the making of the movie and the story behind it. The screening and conversation will take place at Sir Francis Drake High School’s Little Theater.

Thursday March 5, 6:30 p.m.
Adult and Teen Writing Workshop with Stan Heller of Dave Eggers’ 826 Valencia Street: The Writing Center
An evening workshop for adults and teens wishing to learn more about how to creatively tell their own unique story. Writer, producer, and tutor Stan Heller will give present writing tools needed to participants. Event will be held at Corte Madera Library.

Tuesday March 10, 7:30 p.m.
What is the What Book Discussion led by Carol Benet, PhD
Teens and adults are invited to a lively discussion of What is the What led by Carol Benet. Dr. Benet received her PhD in Comparative Literature from the University of California, Berkeley, where she won an Outstanding Teaching Award. She currently conducts 8 book discussion groups in San Francisco and Marin in which she encourages participants not only to enjoy the chosen books, but also to develop skills in the selection, reading and criticism of all books. Event will be held at the Belvedere-Tiburon Library.

Saturday March 21, 11:00 a.m.
African Village Celebration with African Drummer Onye Onyemaechi of Village Rhythms
Belvedere Tiburon Library invites children ages 5 & up to hear the marvelous rhythms of Nigerian drummer Onye Onyemaechi. In full colorful native garb, Onye exhibits his mastery of a myriad of traditional instruments including the African congas and balafon, Gambian djembe, Ghanaian gongon, Nigerian and Ghanaian talking drum, Brazilian berimbau and more. For more information call the Library 415-789-BOOK or email jdesk@bel-tib-lib.org. Event will be held at the Belvedere-Tiburon Library.

Wednesday April 22, 7:00 p.m.
Teen Forum at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, Sausalito
All teens are encouraged to attend this special evening with Dave Eggers. This interactive program will provide an opportunity for Marin’s teens to learn more about the Southern Sudanese plight, and how writing becomes a tool for empowerment and overcoming adversity. Transportation is provided by Dreyer’s Ice Cream and Black-Tie Limousine service from San Rafael, please phone 510-839-3100 to reserve your space. No RSVP for the event is required, but limited seating, so plan to arrive early. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.