Tuesday, December 7th
6:30 PM
Black Rock Branch
Allan G. Johnson will read from his new novel, The First Thing and the Last, which tells the story of one woman’s recovery in the aftermath of domestic violence. The author will also discuss the seven year journey to find a publisher willing to print a realistic portrayal of domestic violence.
Mr. Johnson recently discussed The First Thing and the Last on the nationally syndicated NPR news show “ Here and Now.” To listen to the interview click below:
“The First Thing and the Last is a must-read for anyone working to end domestic violence. Allan Johnson has deftly woven the issues of intimate-partner violence, trauma, and healing into a compelling novel that challenges the reader to question their own beliefs and assumptions about family violence. The First Thing and the Last firmly establishes Johnson as an ally in the fight to end violence against women.” Erika Tindill, Executive Director of the Connecticut Coalition against Domestic Violence.
“This beautiful, brave, and liberating book is a triumph of the spirit. Engrossing and exquisitely written, it shines with rare courage and a tender, life-saving wisdom that comes only through facing the darkness we suffer or inflict on others.” Joanna Macy, author of World as Lover, World
as Self
“Allan Johnson’s illumination of the mind of a woman recovering from horrific abuse and loss is miraculous, carried by a story that is both gripping and inspiring. It is a stunning achievement.” Jean Kilbourne, creator of the award-winning film series, Killing Us Softly
“Allan Johnson’s writing is moving, insightful, and deeply human. He takes us inside painful lives with courageous truth-telling, yet at the same time takes us inside of characters who can heal and thrive. This is a novel that rings true, and that we need urgently to take into our hearts.” Lundy Bancroft, author of Why Does He Do That?
“The First Thing and the Last portrays an extraordinary woman who is brutalized – but the abuse becomes her sorrow and not her identity in Allan Johnson’s complex, masterful, and exacting understanding of such a woman’s life. His ability and willingness to see so deeply, to portray a woman and her story so profoundly, takes our breath away.” Deena Metzger, Poet, novelist, and author of Writing for Your Life
Allan G. Johnson is a nationally recognized writer and public speaker who has focused on issues of social inequality since receiving his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Michigan in 1972. He first became involved in the issue of men’s violence against women in 1977 as a volunteer at the Rape Crisis Service in Hartford, Connecticut. He has authored research on sexual violence, testified before legislative committees, consulted with the National Center for the Prevention of Rape and the Connecticut Commissioner of Public Health, and served on the board of the Connecticut Coalition against Domestic Violence.
His nonfiction books include The Gender Knot:
Unraveling Our Patriarchal Legacy and Privilege, Power, and Difference.
His work has been translated into several languages and excerpted in numerous anthologies. Visit his website at www.agjohnson.us.
Copies of The First Thing and the Last will be available for purchase and signing.
25% of all proceeds from book sales at the event will be donated to The Center for Women and Families.
The Center for Women and Families helps victims of intimate partner abuse or sexual violence to become survivors through supportive services, community education and cooperative partnerships that foster hope, promote self-sufficiency and rebuild lives.
