Events › Read Brave Talk Brave with Mayor Carter, Nnedi Okorafor and Youth Panelists

PLEASE NOTE: It may look like this event is full, but you’re still welcome to join us! Registration is set up to help us gauge attendance—it’s not required. Walk-ins are welcome, and we’d love to see you there!

Join us for Read Brave Talk Brave, a powerful panel discussion featuring Akata Witch author Nnedi Okorafor, youth panelists, and Mayor Melvin Carter as moderator. This engaging conversation will explore the themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and community found in Akata Witch, with insights from both the author and young readers.

The evening will also feature a musical performance by Kashimana, a vocalist, composer, and teaching artist whose soulful sound blends Soul, R&B, Folk, and Afro-funk. Drawing from her Nigerian heritage and experiences growing up in Nigeria and Kenya, Kashimana’s music reflects themes of identity and connection, resonating deeply with the spirit of Akata Witch.

Additionally, the event will showcase original artwork by Leeya Rose Jackson and Philipo Dyauli, two Twin Cities-based artists creating pieces inspired by Akata Witch. Their work explores themes of magic, transformation, and ancestral connection, bringing the book’s world to life through visual storytelling.

This event is free and open to all.  Come be part of the conversation! Please register to help us plan, though registration is not required.


Read Brave Saint Paul is brought to you by the Saint Paul Public Library and The Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library. This program is funded, in part, with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.