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BSC hosts renowned author for reading event

Published: Apr 15 2024
BSC hosts renowned author for reading event - Photo
Bismarck State College (BSC) announces an author reading event featuring acclaimed writer Rebecca Clarren on Monday, April 29, at 6 p.m. (CST). As part of this year’s BSC Arts Quest programming and the Visiting Writers Series, the evening promises an insightful discussion on Clarren's latest book, "The Cost of Free Land,” and will feature a Q&A session facilitated by Dr. Larry Skogen, historian and former BSC president.

This event is free and open to the public and will take place in the BSC National Energy Center of Excellence, Basin Auditorium, 1200 Schafer St., Bismarck.
 
Growing up, Clarren only knew the major plot points of her tenacious immigrant family’s origins. Her great-great-grandparents, the Sinykins, and their six children fled antisemitism in Russia and arrived in the United States at the turn of the 20th century, ultimately settling on a 160-acre homestead in South Dakota. Over the next few decades, despite tough years on a merciless prairie and multiple setbacks, the Sinykins became an American immigrant success story.
 
In “The Cost of Free Land,” Clarren melds investigative reporting with personal family history to reveal the intertwined stories of her family and the Lakota, and the devastating cycle of loss of Indigenous land, culture, and resources that continues today.
 
Clarren's literary contributions have garnered widespread acclaim, with her work gracing the pages of publications such as “Mother Jones” and “The Nation.” Her latest masterpiece, "The Cost of Free Land," explores compelling themes that resonate deeply with readers, making it a must-read for anyone passionate about social justice and environmental issues.
 
Prior to the ArtsQuest event, Clarren's books are available at the BSC Bookstore. They will also be available for purchase at the event. Clarren will be available to sign books following the event.
 
Each year, the BSC Fine Arts and Humanities Department and the Language, Literature, and Mass Communication Department collaborate with other groups across campus to present ArtsQuest, an extended month-long campus celebration of music, art, theater, literature, and film. ArtsQuest highlights the talent of BSC students and brings performances and presentations by guest artists to campus. Throughout the event, attendees have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a wide range of artistic expressions, from captivating performances to thought-provoking presentations. Unless otherwise noted, all events in this enriching cultural experience are free and open to the public. For a complete listing of events, event descriptions and details, visit bismarckstate.edu/artsquest.
 
For more information about ArtsQuest contact (701) 224-2562 or email artsquest@bismarckstate.edu.