James Spooner & Special Musical Guests

The Berkeley Public Library presents award-winning graphic novelist and filmmaker, James Spooner, in conversation at Berkeley’s iconic 924 Gilman Street (Alternative Music Foundation). He will discuss his 2022 graphic novel, The High Desert: Black. Punk. Nowhere., a formative coming-of-age graphic memoir. The High Desert depicts Spooner’s reckoning with identity, racism, clumsy teen love and belonging in an isolated California desert town while searching for salvation and community through punk.

Joining James Spooner in conversation is Justin Hall, award-winning cartoonist, scholar, and educator who is based in the Bay Area.

This author talk will conclude with a live musical performance by special, punk music guests. The artist will be announced as we get closer to the event.

James will be bringing copies of The High Desert: Black. Punk. Nowhere., for sale and signing at this event.

Host or Publisher Heather Cummins