The Atlantic’s Emma Sarappo will be in conversation with Emily Austin about her new book, Is This a Cry for Help? Copies will be available for purchase and signing courtesy of East City Bookshop. 

About the Book

Darcy’s life turned out better than she could have ever imagined. She is a librarian at the local branch, while her wife Joy runs a book binding service. Between the two of them, there is no more room on their shelves with their ample book collections, various knickknacks and bobbles, and dried bouquets. Rounding out their ideal life is two cats and a sun-soaked house by the lake.

But when Darcy receives the news that her ex-boyfriend, Ben, has passed away, she spirals into a pit of guilt and regret, resulting in a mental breakdown and medical leave from the library. When she returns to work, she is met by unrest in her community, and protests surrounding intellectual freedom, resulting in a call for book bans and a second look at the branch’s upcoming DEI programs.

Through the support of her community, colleagues, and the personal growth that results from examining her previous relationships, Darcy comes into her own agency and the truest version of herself. Is This a Cry for Help? not only offers a moving portrait of queer life after coming of age but also powerfully explores questions about sexuality, community, and the importance of libraries.

About the Author and Conversation Partner

Emily Austin (she/her) is the bestselling author of four novels. Her writing often centers lesbian characters and explores themes of mental health, religious trauma, neurodivergence, and queerness.

Emma Sarappo (she/her) is an editor and critic. Currently, she is a senior associate editor for the Atlantic, covering books and literary culture. Previously, she was the arts editor at Washington City Paper.

Hosted by East City Bookshop and the DC Public Library at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St., NW, Washington, DC. Learn more here.