A U.P. native, author and journalist will be speaking in Marquette next week. Tom Bissell, who was born in Escanaba, will be giving a reading of his work at the Women’s Federated Clubhouse on March 31, at 7:30 p.m.
Bissel’s writings have appeared in many literary magazines and publications, including Harper’s Magazine, The New Yorker and Best American Short Stories 2005.
“He (Bissel) has written for amazing publications and traveled all over the world. He’s an incredibly well respected writer,” said Rebecca Johns-Trissler, the director of NMU’s Visiting Writer’s Program.
Bissell’s speech will be another in a line of appearances by influential writers, including Mary Clearman Blew and Lan Samantha Chang, who have been brought to the area by the program.
“I think that people who are interested in writing and travel can learn a lot from his experiences” said Johns-Trissler.
Bissell has been recognized for his work, receiving the Rome Prize in 2006 and the Best Travel Writing Award from the Peace Corps. Bissell is a well respected travel writer, commentator on international relations and self-described “adventure journalist.”
“It will be interesting to see his perspectives on the world because he is from the U.P.,” said Johns-Trissler.
The presentation will include a reading of his work, followed by a question and answer session. Books by Bissell will be available for purchase and refreshments will be provided at the reading.
