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Author Talk: Brad Warner-Letters to a Dead Friend About Zen

Brad will present and discuss a new letter to his friend Marky written specifically for the Highland Square Branch Library. This will be recorded for an upcoming episode of his new podcast.

Akron-native Brad Warner’s latest book Letters to a Dead Friend About Zen tells the story of the night when Brad learns that his childhood friend Marky has died. Brad is about to speak to a group of Zen students in Hamburg, Germany and it’s the last thing he feels like doing. Instead, he wants to tell his friend everything he never said, to explain Zen “to those who don’t understand what I do for a living or why I care about this crazy philosophy and this weird meditation practice I do every day.” So, as he continues his teaching tour through Europe, he writes to his friend as he wishes he had spoken. Simply and humorously, he reflects on why Zen provided him a lifeline in a difficult world. He explores grief, attachment, and the afterlife. He tells Marky, “I’m not interested in Buddhism, I’m interested in what is true,” and then proceeds to poke and prod at that truth. The result for readers is a singular and winning meditation on Zen, a unique tribute to both a life lost and to the one Warner has found.

Brad will present an exclusive new letter to his friend Marky written specifically for the Highland Square Library.  After reading the letter, he will lead an audience discussion.

This discussion will be recorded for an upcoming episode of his new podcast, also called Letters to a Dead Friend About Zen.  A book signing will follow the presentation, with copies available for purchase.

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