Penn State Altoona's Common Read selection for the 2022-23 academic year is "Almost American Girl" by Robin Ha.
ALTOONA, Pa. — Penn State Altoona has several fall events scheduled for the 2022-23 Common Read book, “Almost American Girl,” by Robin Ha.
This coming-of-age story is that of 14-year-old Chuna, who moves with her mother from Seoul, Korea, to Huntsville, Alabama. “Almost American Girl” will lead the community into rich discussions of the Asian American experience, belonging, art as a means for connection, bullying, the search for identity, culture shock and immigration, and cultural expression.
Events include:
- “Almost ___________: My Memoir”
Wednesday, Sept. 14, 12:20-1:15 p.m. in the Titelman Study of the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts — Jeannette Lang, assistant teaching professor of English, assistant director of Writing Commons
This creative writing workshop will help you tell the story of how you continue to define yourself—and give you a start on your submission to the Writing Commons’ Common Read writing contest. - “Who Are You? A Graphic Self Portrait”
Tuesday, Sept. 27, 12:15-1:15 p.m. in rooms 101-103 of the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts — Susan Marie Brundage, associate teaching professor of visual arts
At this artistic workshop, you’ll make your own short graphic memoir using card stock paper, colored pencils, markers, and your imagination. All supplies will be provided. No previous art experience necessary. - “What Food Means ‘Home’ to You? A Celebration of Food’s Personal Power”
Tuesday, Oct. 11, 12:15-1:15 p.m. in the Titelman Study of the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts
Come indulge in some of the food that helped Robin Ha’s “Almost American Girl” feel at home. Learn how food can define important events in our lives, our families, our backgrounds, and how we use food to express ourselves and share that self with others. - An Evening with Robin Ha, author of “Almost American Girl”
Wednesday, Oct. 19
7 to 8 p.m. — A discussion with the author in the Wolf Kuhn Theatre of the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts
8 to 8:30 p.m. — A book signing in the Titelman Study of the Misciagna Family Center
Ha will discuss the creation of “Almost American Girl,” her writing and illustrating process, and answer pre-submitted questions. - “Work is Work, the ARTS are LIFE: Panel Discussion”
Tuesday, Oct. 25, 12:15-1:15 p.m. in the Titelman Study of the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts — Co-moderated by KT Huckabee, teaching professor of integrative arts and dance, and Laura Rotunno, associate professor of English
Hear from those who are not professional artists but pursue various forms of art to enrich their lives. Learn how you can do the same.
Light refreshments will be available at each event. If you need accessibility accommodations, please contact Laura Rotunno at [email protected] at least two weeks prior to the event.
