Hidden Stories: Illuminating the Marginalized in Historical Fiction
Channel: Mechanics' Institute
Date: 14/10/2022

This event was produced in collaboration with the Womens' National Book Association, San Francisco Chapter.

“Story is about what happens internally, not externally...The protagonist’s internal struggle is the story’s third rail, the live wire that sparks our interest and drives the story forward.” Lisa Cron, Story Genius.
 
Join us for a compelling panel discussion with four noted historical fiction authors who give voice to the long-silent, marginalized peoples lost in the shadowy past. Learn how the writers create fresh, authentic tales that mesmerize readers, engage their curiosity and give them in-depth historical understanding never gained in school. These narratives transform readers’ hearts and minds about the unsung peoples of history. Each author will share their wisdom, tips, and techniques for conjuring historical persons and their struggles. Writers may adapt these approaches to any genre that seeks to spark interest in the marginalized of the past, present, or future.

Panel members include:
Award-winning author and Pushcart Prize nominee Sheryl J. Bize-Boutte is an Oakland multidisciplinary writer whose autobiographical and fictional short story collections, along with her lyrical and stunning poetry, artfully convey deeper meanings about race and economics.  Find out more at www.sheryljbize-boutte.com.

Diana Giovinazzo is the critically claimed author of The Woman in Red and Antoinette’s Sister. She is the co-creator of the weekly literary podcast, Wine, Women and Words, featuring interviews with authors over a glass of wine. 

A native Marylander, Connie Matsumoto empty-nests in Greenville, Delaware with her husband, Kent, and their adorable Westie. She is a former corporate devotee who later explored her interior design passion and embraced the art and rigor of creative writing. Find out more at www.matsumotobooks.com

Mary Volmer is the author of two novels: Crown of Dust (Soho Press, 2010) and Reliance, Illinois (Soho Press, 2016). Her essays, reviews, and short stories have appeared in various publications, including Mutha Magazine, the Farallon Review, Women’s Basketball Magazine, Fiction Writers Review, Historical Novel Society Review, The New Orleans Review, Brevity, and Ploughshares. Find out more at www.maryvolmer.com

Gini Grossenbacher, M.Ed. will moderate the event. She is a retired veteran English teacher, poet, and accomplished historical fiction author whose Independent Publisher silver medal American Madams series focuses on the hidden histories of three marginalized gold-rush era madams spanning Baltimore, New Orleans, San Francisco, China, and France. Find her at www.ginigrossenbacher.com