Bard College at Simon's Rock: the Early College

Emmanuel Dongala Reading

Monday, April 26, 2021

Virtual


The Alumni Library at Simon's Rock is hosting a virtual reading with Professor Emeritus Emmanuel Dongala to celebrate the English translation of his latest novel, The Bridgetower Sonata: Sonata Mulattica.

From the publisher: "In this vividly imagined, richly detailed novel, acclaimed Congolese author Emmanuel Dongala trains his laser-sharp wit and satirical perspective on the life and times of a figure from history: George Bridgetower, the violin prodigy, who, at the age of nine took the courtly world of 18th Century Europe by storm-and surprise, given the youth's unusual origins. For young George was or mixed-race parentage, or as was known in the parlance of the day--a mulatto. [...] The Bridgetower Sonata brings to light the issues of race, class, privilege, and with gentle humor reveals the rampant hypocrisy of the era that ironically mirrors our own."

From a review in Library Journal: "Charming in its details and sharply perceptive in its intent, this fluidly translated work is not just for music lovers but for everyone interested in the culture and history of its setting, and in the risks of friendship."

Emmanuel taught chemistry at Simon's Rock from 1998 - 2014. His previous books include Little Boys Come from the Stars and Johnny Mad Dog, which was made into a feature film in 2008.

This event is free and open to the public. All are welcome!

Attend the Reading
Join via Zoom
Meeting ID: 889 6034 3374
Passcode: 900163
Join via Phone: 1-646-558-8656