When
May 28, 2025 | 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
What
The Contemporary Austin and First Light Books will host a special evening with author and poet Ocean Vuong on Wednesday, May 28, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Distribution Hall in East Austin. The event celebrates the release of Vuong’s highly anticipated new novel, “The Emperor of Gladness.”
The program will include a short reading by Vuong, a conversation moderated by novelist James Han Mattson (Reprieve), and an audience Q&A. Vuong, a MacArthur Fellow and bestselling author of “On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous,” will discuss his latest work, which explores themes of labor, chosen family, and unexpected friendship in contemporary American life.
The evening also highlights a newly painted portrait of Vuong by artist Jiab Prachakul, on view now in “Sweet Solitude” at The Contemporary Austin – Jones Center.
Tickets include a signed copy of “The Emperor of Gladness” and are priced at $50 for general admission or $45 for members of The Contemporary Austin and First Light Books.
Learn MoreWhere
DISTRIBUTION HALL
1500 East 4th Street Austin, TX 78702