This Strange Eventful History: Claire Messud with Amitava Kumar

All PEN World Voices Festival tickets are non-refundable. Please confirm the time and location of your event before finalizing your purchase.

This exclusive, pre-publication event celebrates the launch of one of 2024’s most anticipated books: award-winning author Claire Messud’s This Strange Eventful History. The Emperor’s Children author’s latest novel traverses seven decades following a family through World War II, Algerian independence, and their future without a homeland. Inspired in part by stories from her own family’s history, Claire Messud juxtaposes her characters' intimate lives with the social and political upheavals of the time. Messud will be in conversation with acclaimed novelist Amitava Kumar (My Beloved Life).

The 2024 PEN World Voices Festival, the 20th anniversary of the festival, will be a celebration of world literature and free expression. Over four days, over 100 writers from nearly 30 countries will be featured in engaging talks, panels, readings, and performances in New York City and greater Los Angeles.

Visit for more information about the entire festival, as well as PEN America.

Strand Bookstore is an ADA compliant venue. The event space is accessible via elevator.

ASL interpretation is available for this event by request only. Please reach out to our Box Office team at [email protected] by April 21st to request.

Please ask a Box Office Attendant or festival representative upon arrival for directions to accessible seating if preferred.

For further information on accessibility in this space, or to make a request, please contact [email protected]

While not required, per public health official guidelines, the World Voices Festival recommends being fully vaccinated, and wearing masks in all public indoor settings as a precaution against the spread of Covid-19, as well as around crowds.

If you are feeling unwell, please do not come to the event. Reach out to [email protected] for assistance if you have already purchased a ticket.

We thank you for ensuring our speakers, guests and venue workers feel safe and comfortable at all World Voices Festival events. If you have questions or concerns please contact [email protected]

Host or Publisher PEN America