ACCLAIMED SOUTHERN WRITER TO READ AT UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - Acclaimed Southern writer Dorothy Allison will present a reading from her work at the University of Arkansas on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2001.

Sponsored by the UA creative writing program and funded through a generous donation from the Walton Family Foundation Charitable Trust, the reading promises to showcase the talents of a writer whose prose combines eloquence and irreverence, violence and humor.

"Dorothy Allison has said in the past that writing saved her life, and she writes like that’s the truth," said Molly Giles, associate professor of creative writing. "She’s passionate about language and storytelling. She has an infectious, almost evangelical approach to writing."

Over the past two decades, Allison has published numerous books of poetry, fiction and essays. Her first novel "Bastard Out of Carolina" qualified as a finalist for the 1992 National Book Award and was made into a highly-acclaimed film directed by Anjelica Huston. In 1998, the New York Times named her novel "Cavedwellers" a Notable Book of the Year.

Those familiar with Allison’s work will find the reading a welcome opportunity to hear her speak publicly. Others will enjoy their first exposure to a writer of powerful talent - one who wears the mantle of Southern literature with none of its sentimentality or pomp.

"There’s no predicting what Dorothy will do. She may have the whole audience singing before the night ends," Giles said. "But she’ll definitely leave the audience jazzed. I’ve seen many speakers, and she’s one of the best - wild and funny and warm and sparkling. People will be entertained and educated by her."

The reading will take place at 8 p.m. on Feb. 14, in Giffels Auditorium. It is free and open to all members of the public.