NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University is set to host Aimee Bender, a novelist and short story author known for her magical realism style, as part of its Visiting Writers Series. Bender will present her work on April 3 from 6 to 7 p.m. in the J.W. Jones Student Union Boardroom and participate in a panel during the Northwest Day of Writing on April 4. Both events are open to the public at no cost.

Daniel Biegelson, series director and senior instructor of English, stated, “Bender will share the power of fiction to break down barriers, both personal and cultural, and show us how stories can speak to the most profound and confusing aspects of our lives.” He added that storytelling could be a transformative tool connecting past and future narratives.

Bender's latest book, "The Butterfly Lampshade," published in 2020, delves into themes of memory and perception. Her other works include "The Girl in the Flammable Skirt," which was recognized as a New York Times Notable Book; "An Invisible Sign of my Own"; "Willful Creatures"; "The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake," winner of several awards; and "The Color Master."

Her writing has appeared in publications such as Granta, GQ, Harper’s Magazine, Tin House, McSweeney’s, and The Paris Review. Her stories have been featured on Public Radio International's programs like “This American Life” and “Selected Shorts.”

Beyond writing, Bender is involved with Imagination Workshop—a project supporting artistic expression among individuals with special needs—and has received accolades including two Pushcart Prizes.

Bender holds degrees from the University of California San Diego (bachelor’s) and University of California Irvine (master’s). She currently teaches creative writing at the University of Southern California.

The Visiting Writers Series aims to enhance educational experiences while fostering community values through literature. It is sponsored by Kawasaki Motos Manufacturing Corporation and Green Tower Press. The series will conclude with an appearance by Maya Angelou Award Winner Jamel Brinkley on April 18.

For further details about the series or events featuring Aimee Bender, contact Daniel Biegelson at 660-562-1266.