May 14, 2025
A Conversation with Pulitzer Prize-Winning Historian Rick Atkinson
Join the National Writers Series for an inspiring conversation with #1 New York Times bestselling and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Rick Atkinson. He will talk about his latest book, The Fate of the Day, with New York Times bestselling author Doug Stanton.
A riveting narrative exploring the pivotal middle years of the American Revolutionary War, the publication of Fate of the Day marks the 250th anniversary of the beginning of the Revolution. Atkinson’s brilliant account of the lethal conflict between the Americans and the British offers not only deeply researched and spectacularly dramatic history, but also a new perspective on the demands that a democracy makes on its citizens. It is the second volume of his American Revolution trilogy.
Atkinson is the author of seven previous works of history, including The British Are Coming, the first volume of his American Revolution trilogy. He is also the author of The Long Gray Line, the Liberation Trilogy (An Army at Dawn, The Day of Battle, and The Guns at Last Light).
Doors open at 6 p.m. with live music and a cash bar, and the conversation begins at 7 p.m. This presentation includes a Q&A session with both the live and livestream audience, and an author signing event following in the lobby. Please note: books are not available to pick up prior to this live event.
Which Ticket Package to Choose?
If you and a partner or friend are attending together and only need one book to share, choose our Two-Tickets/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. To purchase a virtual ticket, please go to www.nationalwritersseries.org for ticketing information.