The event is organized by the English department and creative writing club, according to a press release.
“The creative writing club is delighted that Northern Ireland writer and peace builder Tony Macaulay is coming to read for us,” said Samantha Arnold, assistant professor of English and director of creative writing club, in a press release.
“Seeing a working writer immersed in his craft and being able to interact with that person, ask questions and join in a professional dialogue with him is just as valuable as the time students spend in the classroom,” she said.
Macaulay will read ?passages from his award-winning memoirs “Paperboy” and “Breadboy,” according to the release.
He talks about growing up in Northern Ireland in the two books.
Macaulay was raised in Belfast at the beginning of 35 years of conflict in Northern Ireland.
This experience shaped his life, according to his ?website.
Much of his work focuses on his experiences growing up in a “fractured and troubled community.”
His book “Paperboy” is a memoir on his days working as a paperboy in Ireland.
Despite the national struggles around him, Macaulay was dedicated to his job.
The book works to show audiences that they can find hope in even some of the darkest times, according to his website.
“Breadboy” is the sequel to his first novel and recounts his years as a bread delivery boy in Belfast.
The comedy tells the story of his pre-teen years and what it was like ?growing up in that specific region of Ireland.
His books have earned him recognition from organizations, critics and government representatives in both Northern Ireland (UK) and the Republic of Ireland, according to the release.
Macaulay has also written a book called “All Growed Up” about his teenage years, following the same style as his previous memoirs. The book takes place in Coleraine rather than Belfast.
“He has spent the past 25 years working to build peace and reconciliation at home and abroad, working with hundreds of youth and community groups to break down barriers of mistrust, hatred and division,” ?according to his website.
Audrey Perkins
