On Thursday, July 11th at 7:00 pm, an extraordinary literary event will take place as renowned poet, novelist, and National Poetry Slam Champion Elizabeth Acevedo engages in a captivating conversation with writer Ebony LaDelle. This in-person gathering, presented in partnership with East City Bookshop, promises to be a feast for the senses, a celebration of words, and a profound exploration of the human experience. Elizabeth Acevedo, a daughter of Dominican immigrants, infuses her poetry with the rich rhythms of Dominican bolero and the gritty essence of her beloved New York City. Her works, including the award-winning novels The Poet X and Clap When You Land, have garnered critical acclaim and resonated deeply with readers worldwide. Ebony LaDelle, the author of the acclaimed novel Love Radio, brings her own unique voice and perspective to the conversation, having worked in the publishing industry and hailing from a diverse background that spans Michigan, Howard University, and Brooklyn. Together, these two literary luminaries will engage in a thought-provoking dialogue that transcends boundaries, inviting attendees to embark on a journey of self-discovery, cultural exploration, and artistic appreciation. The event offers a rare opportunity to witness the creative process unfold, as Acevedo and LaDelle share their insights, inspirations, and the profound impact their works have had on readers worldwide. Attendees will not only be treated to an evening of captivating storytelling and poetic brilliance but also have the chance to delve deeper into the minds of these remarkable authors through a post-conversation book signing. This event promises to be a highlight of the literary calendar, a celebration of the power of words to inspire, challenge, and unite us all. Whether you are a lifelong lover of literature or simply seeking an enriching cultural experience, this is an occasion not to be missed, as it promises to leave an indelible mark on your soul and ignite a newfound appreciation for the transformative power of the written word. Acevedo's literary prowess extends far beyond her novels, as she is also the author of the poetry chapbook Beastgirl & Other Origin Myths, a collection that explores the historical, mythological, gendered, and geographic experiences of a first-generation American woman. From the border in the Dominican Republic to the bustling streets of New York City, Acevedo's poems invite readers to consider how some bodies must navigate the world as "beastly beings," and how these forgotten myths are both a blessing and a birthright. Her poems have been published in esteemed literary journals such as Poetry, Puerto Del Sol, Callaloo, Poet Lore, and The Notre Dame Review, among others. Acevedo's talent and dedication have earned her numerous accolades, including fellowships from Cave Canem and Cantomundo, as well as participation in the prestigious Callaloo Writer's Workshop. She has given TedTalks and has been a featured reader at renowned venues across the globe, including The Lincoln Center, Madison Square Garden, the Kennedy Center of the Performing Arts, South Africa's State Theatre, The Bozar in Brussels, and the National Library of Kosovo, to name a few. In 2022, Acevedo's exceptional contributions to literature were further recognized when The Poetry Foundation selected her as the Young People's Poet Laureate, a testament to her ability to captivate and inspire readers of all ages. With her powerful command of language and her ability to weave together personal narratives with universal themes, Acevedo has established herself as a literary force to be reckoned with, and her conversation with Ebony LaDelle promises to be a highlight of the summer literary season.