Event
About the Event
This event will feature an engaging conversation between acclaimed authors Peter Brown, author of The Wild Robot series, and Eliot Schrefer, author of Queer Ducks (and Other Animals). These authors have crafted stories where nonhumans—whether animals or machines with distinctive qualities—take center stage. During the event, Peter and Eliot will discuss how they bring their characters to life, and how these characters challenge human perceptions of sentience, agency, and emotionality. Following a conversation between the speakers, in-person and online guests will be free to ask questions. The event will close with a free vegan reception and book signing for in-person guests.
About the Speakers
Peter Brown writes and illustrates books for children. His picture books include The Curious Garden, Children Make Terrible Pets, and Mr. Tiger Goes Wild. His work has earned numerous honors, such as a Horn Book Award, a Children’s Choice Illustrator of the Year Award, a New York Times Best Illustrated Book Award, and a Caldecott Honor. Peter’s #1 New York Times bestselling novel for children, The Wild Robot, was the inspiration for the animated film from DreamWorks. He lives in Maine with his wife, X. Fang, who is also an author and illustrator. Visit Peter at www.peterbrownstudio.com.
Eliot Schrefer is a New York Times-bestselling author, has twice been a finalist for the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, received the Stonewall Honor for best LGBTQIA+ teen book, and received the Printz Honor for best young adult book from the ALA. In naming him an Editor’s Choice, the New York Times has called his work “dazzling… big-hearted.” His science writing has appeared in Discover, Sierra, USAToday, Nautilus, and The Washington Post Magazine. He has an M.A. in Animal Studies from NYU, is on the faculty of the Hamline MFA for writing for young people, and lives with his husband in New York City.
This event is hosted by the NYU Center for Mind, Ethics, and Policy and the NYU Wild Animal Welfare Program. Thank you to NYU Animal Studies, NYU Environmental Humanities, and NYU Experimental Humanities for supporting this event.