May 20, 2025
The National Writers Series is pleased to present Jeanine Cummins, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of American Dirt, in conversation about her powerful new novel, Speak to Me of Home.
Cummins’ latest work is a deeply moving multigenerational story that spans decades and continents, following three women—Rafaela, her daughter Ruth, and her granddaughter Daisy—as they navigate identity, family, and the meaning of home. From Puerto Rico to the American Midwest and back again, their journeys unfold against the backdrop of shifting cultural landscapes, personal sacrifices, and longburied family secrets.
At the heart of Speak to Me of Home lies an exploration of belonging: How can three women, bound by blood and history, hold such different ideas of where they come from? And when life’s storms—both literal and figurative—push them apart, can they find their way back to each other? With lyrical prose and emotional depth, Cummins crafts a novel that is both intimate and sweeping, resonating with readers who cherish stories of resilience, love, and homecoming.
Jeanine Cummins is the internationally bestselling author of American Dirt, which was an Oprah’s Book Club selection, a #1 Indie Next pick, and a worldwide sensation, selling over 3.5 million copies and translated into 37 languages. Her other works include the memoir A Rip in Heaven and the novels The Outside Boy and The Crooked Branch.
The event begins at 7 p.m. and includes a Q&A and author signing. Each ticket includes a hardcover copy of Speak to Me of Home (or opt for a two-ticket package with one book). Please note: signed books are only available at the live event. Early pick up of the book is NOT available.
Join us for an unforgettable evening as Jeanine Cummins takes the stage to discuss her most personal novel yet, a book that speaks to the universal longing for connection and the search for home.
Which Ticket Package to Choose?
If you and a partner or friend are attending together and only need one book to share, choose our TwoTickets/One-Book package.
About Our Book Sales
One of the most exciting parts of attending our events is getting a signed copy of the author's latest book along with the chance to meet the writer and have them personalize it after the show. Each sale benefits our local partner Horizon Books in downtown Traverse City, Michigan. The bundled price of National Writers Series books is always 20 percent below retail, so you also get a great deal. If you already own the featured book, the one you receive with your ticket makes a great gift for friends and family. Or you can donate it back to us at the National Writers Series, and we'll distribute it to libraries and young writers in Northern Michigan. We think a new book is one of the greatest joys of life, and we thank you for helping us make Traverse City one of the premiere destinations for authors through our book sales.
Virtual Option
Even if you can’t make it to the City Opera House, you can still enjoy National Writers Series events from the comfort of your own home on event night or later on-demand when it’s more convenient. Please go to www.nationalwritersseries.org for ticketing information.
Admission
Tickets available to Friends of the NWS on 3/20 and to the public on 3/27
Performances
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 - 7:00pmSustaining Sponsor: The Green Brick Foundation
Season Sponsor: NorthGuard Technology Group
Season Sponsor: Golden-Fowler Home Furnishings
Community Sponsor: Prout Financial
Event Sponsor: Judy & Bruce Balas/Susan & Chuck Cady
Arts Benefactor: Ward & Mary Bevans Gillett
Bookstore Partner: Horizon Books
Media Partner: Interlochen Public Radio
Media Sponsor: Traverse City Record-Eagle
Supporting Sponsors: Image 360, Cambria Suites
Official Airport: Cherry Capital Airport