BookTalkUNA

A book discussion series sponsored by the
United Nations Association of New York

 

 

 

Given the commitment of our highly enthusiastic, intelligent and motivated members in our New York chapter, it was only natural that UNA-NY should realize another opportunity to engage the altruistic aspirations of its local community — by hosting what has become yet another popular program in its many varied offerings: the BookTalkUNA discussion series.

This bright complement to our film-talk presentations features books and their authors whose work is in-depth, politically and ethically engaged, far-sighted and often controversial. We host writers and thinkers who illuminate many complex social and political realities that challenge assumptions, while offering inspiration, ideas and understanding which can create possibilities for a better world. Their valuable presentations complement the far-reaching work of the United Nations and its vital goals.

BookTalkUNA also offers attendees an ideal opportunity to engage with our hosted authors in lively and inspired dialogues while renewing their motivation and commitment to the important work shared by all members of our unique New York chapter. They can also enjoy networking and socializing opportunities at receptions held before and after the presentations. As seating is limited, and because of this special opportunity for dialogue with our guests, we strongly encourage reservations for these events.

Our inaugural event opened the series in the fall of 2010, in the Kaufman Center at the Institute of International Education in New York, who is our co-host for BookTalkUNA. The book discussed was Strength in What Remains by Pulitzer Prize winning author, Tracy Kidder. Our special guest was Deogratias (Deo) Niyizonkiza, founder of Village Health Works in Burundi and whose personal journey is the subject of Mr. Kidder's book.

Some highlights from the series, of books and authors we have hosted thus far, include Eliza Griswold's The Tenth Parallel, in which the award-winning investigative journalist and poet spent seven years traveling between the equator and the tenth parallel, exploring the complexity of religious conflicts; and economist Dambisa Moyo and her provocative look at the recent disasters in the global financial markets, How the West was Lost. We also hosted a very special appearance by the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, human rights activist and author, Dr. Shirin Ebadi who discussed The Golden Cage, her attempt to shed light on Iran's current events, its recent history and its divisive political ideologies through the story of three brothers.

 

Learn more about our BookTalkUNA presentations

Strength in What Remains
The Tenth Parallel
How the West was Lost
The Golden Cage
Getting Better
The Unraveling

 

Please check our events regularly for updates on future book presentations — OR sign up on our email list for news about all our upcoming events — so you won't miss a thing!