One of my very first Onward Book Club guests was the incomparable Jesmyn Ward — who I believe to be the greatest and most important living American author. And now I am THRILLED to announce that Jesmyn is not only our first alumna to return, but that she joined me for our first ever in-person session of the book club!

Last month I had the honor of talking with Jesmyn about her latest novel, the devastatingly beautiful LET US DESCEND, at Symphony Space in New York City, and I am still thinking about it. Jesmyn shared so much about the process of writing this powerhouse of a book — our conversation touched on grief, loyalty, magical realism, family, good/bad television, the balance between research and imagination, and so much more. What a joy, and what an honor as always to be in conversation with such a singular and substantial talent.

Thanks to Symphony Space for hosting us and for making this video available! If you haven’t yet read LET US DESCEND, I urge you to get your hands on a copy and then return here to enjoy this conversation.