Step inside the dynamic world of publishing with “Inside Random House: The Book Business,” From the pivotal roles of agents who scout talent, editors who refine manuscripts, and copywriters who craft compelling text, to meticulous proofreaders and fact checkers ensuring accuracy, every step is essential in bringing captivating stories to life. Penguin Random House stands as a cornerstone of the publishing industry, renowned for its rich history and dedication to nurturing literary talent. Join us for an insightful exploration of the inner workings of Random House, where creativity, innovation, and passion converge to shape the future of storytelling.
1:00 PM Reading with Isisara Bey and Keith Colón, Jr.
The Prophet, a reading in honor of the 101st anniversary of this classic book of 26 prose poems written by the acclaimed Lebanese-American writer, Khalil Gibran, accompanied by violinist Keith Colón, Jr.
1:30 PM Get On the Banned Wagon: The Fight for Books
This survey of Penguin Random House’s current legal actions in defense of books, authors, the right to read and be read, and the free flow of ideas and perspectives that is a hallmark of American Democracy is presented by Ojasvinee (OJ) Singh, Legal Fellow, PRH.
2:00 PM Talking Book – How to Be An Audiobook Narrator
Do you know what it takes to read and record a book out loud? Find out how best to prepare, what vocal skills are needed, and how to get hired as a narrator. Then take a turn at the mic to test out your narration abilities!
Presenters:
Karen Murray: Veteran voice actor for audiobooks, radio and television commercials, documentary films, and platforms including Hulu, iHeartRadio, Lifetime Television, and Discovery ID.
Julie Wilson: Lead, PRH Casting, and cofounder, Ahab Talent casting platform
3:00 PM Opening the Book on Publishing: The Women Innovating Penguin Random House
Join a roundtable discussion on vital topics in the publishing industry with executives representing various departments of the publishing powerhouse.
Panelists:
Kim Shariff: EVP, Strategy for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Susette Brooks: Dir, Inclusive Marketing
Lara Phan: VP, of Account Marketing & Event Strategy
Moderator:
Jamia Wilson: VP & Executive Editor, Random House
4:00 PM Special Presentation: African Traditions in the Novels of Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison scholar, Dr. Kokahvah Zauditu-Selassie explores a wide range of complex concepts, including African deities, ancestral ideas, spiritual archetypes, mythic trope, and lyrical prose that appear in novels The Bluest Eye, Sula, Song of Solomon, and more.
Processional led by King Salim Ajanku, Master African drummer; Founding Co-director and Lead Facilitating Artist, Creative Strategies for Change.
Mama Koko is a retired chair of African World Studies and History at Morris Brown University and associate professor at Morgan State University. She is the recipient of fellowships from Fulbright, National Endowment for the Humanities, and National Council for Black Studies. Mama Koko is featured in the Netflix film, In Our Mothers Gardens, and is an Obatala priest in the Yoruba system and a Mama Nganga in the Kongo spiritual tradition.
Ticket Price: Free with RSVP
