Colson Whitehead: Cool Machine

Two-time Pulitzer Prize-winner Colson Whitehead discusses the magnificent final volume of his Harlem Trilogy.

Cool Machine returns us to the world of successful business owner/master fence Ray Carney as he gambles on one last heist to support his beloved wife, but finds himself entangled with a legendary criminal mastermind.

Still haunted by his inability to save his cousin Freddie years earlier, Carney comes out of retirement to team up with friend and partner in crime, Pepper, for a chance to rescue Freddie’s son from the violent forces of the city, even if it means risking the safety and security he’s spent decades building for his family.

With his trademark pitch-perfect prose, Whitehead magnificently brings to life 1980s New York, painting a portrait of a city and a family in transition.

Colson Whitehead speaks with Elamin Abdelmahmoud about Cool Machine and the journey of bringing his acclaimed, bestselling trilogy to its triumphant conclusion.

Q&A and book signing to follow. Books available for purchase.

About this event’s guests:

Colson Whitehead

Elamin Abdelmahmoud

Read more:

Cool Machine : A Novel

Crook Manifesto

Harlem Shuffle

Son of Elsewhere

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PLAN YOUR VISIT:

Location: Bram and Bluma Appel Salon, Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge Street), 2nd floor

Time: Doors open 6:00pm, Event starts 7:00pm.

Tickets: Free registration required.

Ticket policy: We oversell these events to ensure that the greatest number of people have an opportunity to attend. Tickets guaranteed until 6:45pm or until capacity is reached. Seating first come, first served.

Bar: Beer/wine available for purchase (debit/credit only).

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This event is part of our signature Salon Series , where we host local and international authors, artists and thinkers in conversation about their new books and big ideas.

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