In anticipation for best-selling novelist Pat Conroy to read at Fulton Chapel on Friday, Nov. 1, Square Books has been working to spread the word about the event. In conjunction with Conroy’s reading at Fulton Chapel, he will also be signing copies of his newly published novel, “The Death of Santini”.
This novel focuses on family life, specifically his relationship with his father—who was initially the inspiration behind “The Great Santini”.
Staff and patrons of Square Books are not the only ones to share the excitement for this event as many other people in the Ole Miss community have a fondness for Conroy’s works.
Chancellor Dan Jones describes Conroy as one of his favorite authors and believes this is a “wonderful opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and community members to meet and hear one of America’s leading writers”.
English Department Chair Ivo Kamps considers it “rare for students to have a chance to be in the same room with someone of Mr. Conroy’s stature” and hopes students will take advantage of this opportunity.
A number of tickets are set aside for students and faculty of the University of Mississippi at Square Books and at the English Department offices on campus. As stated on the flyer outside Square Books, two free tickets will be given to individuals who order a signed copy of “The Death of Santini”.
English Professor Jay Watson also has an appreciation for Conroy and admires the fact that he is a Southern writer who reaches a wider audience with his books.
“That’s something that not every ‘literary’ author can claim by a long shot,” Watson said.
During Conroy’s last visit to Fulton Chapel in 1995, his relationship with his father was still turbulent, yet Pat Conroy returns to the University of Mississippi in 2013 with a new novel and a new attitude about the father whom he believed he could never forgive.
— Libby Gerstner
