Evelyn Bednarz is as down-to-earth as her Midwestern roots. Clear in her convictions, she is also enviably tolerant and curious about ways of life outside of her own. These qualities serve Evelyn well when a trio of Buddhist monks proclaims her five-year-old son the latest reincarnation of their high lama. In Omar’s novel, Dash is a reporter who uncovers a cult peddling pills that erase traumatic memories—precisely the kind that Dash has been desperate to forget. With the pacing of a literary thriller, the emotional depth is found in the author’s meditations on grief, loss, and love. Here are two experiences for open minds.

Pesenters: David Guterson, Omar Hussain

Moderator: Gabe Habash