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As the Page Turns: Annual Pass Members Special Online Event with Alka Joshi

Conversations from a Page is hosting a special event for our Annual Pass Members with an As The Page Turns Event on Zoom where we will be hosting Alka Joshi to discuss The Henna Artist at 11:00 a.m. CST. For the most lively discussion, it is best to have The Henna Artist read prior so we can enjoy talking about it with Alka. If you are interested in joining us on October 22, click on the button below to register (you must already have an annual pass or purchase one to join this particular event). You will be directed to payment options after submitting the registration form. If you have previously purchased a year-long pass, please fill out the registration form so we know to expect you.

A NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLER

A REESE WITHERSPOON HELLO SUNSHINE BOOK CLUB PICK

“Eloquent and moving…Joshi masterfully balances a yearning for self-discovery with the need for familial love.”—Publishers Weekly

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The Henna Artist

About The Henna Artist

Vivid and compelling in its portrait of one woman’s struggle for fulfillment in a society pivoting between the traditional and the modern, The Henna Artist opens a door into a world that is at once lush and fascinating, stark and cruel.

Escaping from an abusive marriage, seventeen-year-old Lakshmi makes her way alone to the vibrant 1950s pink city of Jaipur. There she becomes the most highly requested henna artist—and confidante—to the wealthy women of the upper class. But trusted with the secrets of the wealthy, she can never reveal her own…

Known for her original designs and sage advice, Lakshmi must tread carefully to avoid the jealous gossips who could ruin her reputation and her livelihood. As she pursues her dream of an independent life, she is startled one day when she is confronted by her husband, who has tracked her down these many years later with a high-spirited young girl in tow—a sister Lakshmi never knew she had. Suddenly the caution that she has carefully cultivated as protection is threatened. Still she perseveres, applying her talents and lifting up those that surround her as she does.

About Alka Joshi

Alka Joshi was born in the desert state of Rajasthan in India. In 1967, her family immigrated to America. She earned a BA from Stanford University and an MFA from California College of Arts in San Francisco. Prior to writing The Henna Artist, Alka ran an advertising and marketing agency for 30 years. She has spent time in France and Italy and currently lives with her husband on the Northern California Coast.

Earlier Event: October 6
Online Literary Salon with Stephen P. Kiernan and Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai
Later Event: November 17
As the Page Turns: Musical Chairs