Tucson Festival of Books

Kiese Laymon

Born and raised in Jackson, Miss., Kiese Laymon, Ottilie Schillig Professor in English and creative writing and the University of Mississippi, is the author of the novel "Long Division," the memoir "Heavy," and the essay collection "How to Slowly Kill Yourself and Others in America."

Visit website

Awards: Heavy: Andrew Carnegie Medal and finalist for the Kirkus Prize

Scheduled events:

Who Am I, Anyway?

Our stories impress themselves upon us, sometimes more forcefully than expected. Acclaimed authors Nadia Owusu and Kiese Laymon join us to discuss their personal stories about the push and pull of belonging, about race and identity, about home, family, trauma and the courage required to face such challenges.

Citi Stage (Seats 1000)
Sat, Mar 6, 2021, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Memoir / Essays / Creative Nonfiction

Watch broadcast

Panelists: Kiese Laymon, Nadia Owusu
Moderator: Laura Maher

2024 Information

About the Festival Alumni Authors Friend of the Festival Membership Benefits Become a Sponsor Volunteer With Us!

Go Mobile

Read about our mobile apps

To Enter Festival Portal

Festival Portal

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Stay up-to-date with all the latest news and information from the Tucson Festival of Books!