"Cool. Awkward. Black." Book Launch Party
The LGBTQ Center and Epilogue Books have joined forces to bring you an event like no other, celebrating the January book release of “Cool. Awkward. Black.” This Young Adult (YA) anthology is a genre blend of critically-acclaimed Black authors who have come together to redefine what it means to be both Black and “geeky.” Blerds and Black creatives of all ages are invited to the Varsity Theater on January 20th for an evening with authors, poets, and wordsmiths to center and celebrate their own experiences of being cool, awkward, and Black. An astonishing roster of guests will be in attendance, including the anthology’s editor, Karen Strong, as well as contributing author Tracy Deonn, poet laureate CJ Suitt, wordsmith Dasan, and much more for discussions and spoken word performances that you won’t soon forget! Light refreshments will be provided, as well as local swag, and signed copies of the book for purchase. Visit the event page on Epilogue’s website to get your tickets before they sell out!
Please note that this evening is intended to highlight Black joy, community, and lived experience. While allies are welcome to attend, we ask that you prioritize BIPOC voices, are aware of the space you are occupying, and adhere to the event's code of conduct. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
Karen Strong is a lifelong technology and science geek and the author of the critically acclaimed middle grade novels Just South of Home and Eden’s Everdark. She has also written short fiction for Star Wars and other award-winning anthologies. A graduate of the University of Georgia, Karen lives in Atlanta. You can visit Karen Strong online at Karen-Strong.com or follow her on Twitter and Instagram @KarenMusings.
Tracy Deonn is the #1 New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of Legendborn and its sequel Bloodmarked. A second-generation fangirl, after earning her master’s degrees in communication from UNC-Chapel Hill, she worked in live theater, video games, and K–12 education. When she’s not writing, Tracy speaks on panels at SFF conventions, reads fanfic, and keeps an eye out for ginger-flavored everything.