The University of Mary Washington Bookstore celebrated the national release date for Go Set a Watchman, Harper Lee’s much-anticipated new novel, with a book talk and reception on Tuesday, July 14.
Professor of English Gary Richards, an expert on Southern literature and Harper Lee’s works, spoke briefly and answered questions about the author and her works. The event took place in the UMW Bookstore in Lee Hall from 1-3 p.m.
Taking place 20 years after events in To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper’s new novel will allow readers to reconnect with Scout and Atticus, among other favorite characters.
“Readers are eager to see how Harper Lee has imagined her famous characters later in their lives,” said Richards, who teaches To Kill A Mockingbird in his summer course titled “Writing About the South.” “At the broader level, though, readers will be judging whether this new text–feared by some to be a rough or early draft–can match the power of To Kill a Mockingbird.”
Attendees received a discounted price of $19.85 on the first edition of the book in addition to 15% off most regularly priced UMW clothing and insignia during the event. Copies of Go Set a Watchman can be ordered through the UMW Bookstore and picked up at the event. The retail price of $27.99 will apply to the book after July 14.
Reserved parking was available in the Monroe Hall lot, off Sunken Road, and in Jefferson Square, off College Avenue, near the main College Avenue entrance to the University. Visitor parking also is available on the right hand side of Double Drive, the main campus entryway, and on Level 4 of the Parking Deck.
The UMW Bookstore is owned and operated by the University of Mary Washington. All of the profits support UMW students and programs.
For more information, call the UMW Bookstore at 540-654-1631.
Check out this video of the event.
I wonder if Professor Richard’s talk could be videotaped and made available online or by social media in some way, so those of us who live far away might hear what he has to say.
Please let me know.
Thank you,
Karen Gustafson
Mary Washington College of UVA, 1963
Thank you for your suggestion. We are investigating the possibility of having Prof. Richard’s talk videotaped. If it is possible, we’ll post a link.
Hi Karen – Here’s a link to watch a video of the event: https://vimeo.com/133662894.