Last night over 50 people attended Dr. Bryan Litfin's Pre-Release Party for the second book in his Chiveis trilogy, The Gift. Students, staff, faculty, and the provost were welcomed to the lower level of the library by a slide show of images illustrating the Italian-setting of the novel, which was put together by Crowell Library's Music Library Assistant Jenny Greening. Antonín Dvořák's 1893 New World Symphony set the mood with adventurous crescendos and colorful motifs. In addition to the visual and auditory stimulation, guests' taste buds were enticed by Catering's Italian-inspired spread, including Bruschetta, sparkling white grape juice, polenta with cheese, and potato wedges sprinkled with walnuts and doused with sour cream on top.
At 7pm, Litfin gave some introductory remarks, including welcomes and thank you's. Those in attendence were then shown a trailer about the sequel to The Sword that is available on the book's website: http://www.chiveis.com/ Next he re-capped the premise and basic plot of the trilogy and then proceeded to show through power point the setting, plot, and character of The Gift.
Following this, Dr. Rosalie de Rosset joined the stage and interviewed Litfin, cordially asking literary criticism-type questions. Litfin's answers gave guests a greater understanding and insight as to the themes, purpose, process, and story of the book. The audience was then able to pose questions to the author. These dealt with what types of weapons would be used or introduced and if the reader would be kept abreast of the goings-on in Chiveis. Litfin answered some fully but others he kept a mystery referring those interested to the book for answers.
To end the evening, Litfin read a scene from The Gift in which Teo and Ana have a romantic-type date and in which Teo's position and character are challenged. (You'll have to read the book - no spoilers here!). Finally, everyone was invited to purchase a pre-release copy of the book, as well as The Sword, from LifeWay Christian Store at a discount. Litfin then signed copies and talked with the guests.
No comments:
Post a Comment