New Books Featured in Benevento Farewell Event

Joe Benevento, professor of English, will read from his two new books during an event marking his four decades of service to the University.

“Benevento Says Goodbye: A Celebration of 40 Years at Truman” will begin at 2 p.m. April 15 at the Catholic Newman Center, 709 S. Davis St. Benevento will share passages from his newest works, “The Cracker Box Poems” and his novel, “My Perfect Wife, Her Perfect Son.” The latter work is a seriocomic novel about the Holy Family from the viewpoint of St. Joseph. The novel can also be purchased directly from the publisher, Histria Books. Discounted copies of the new books will be available at the event, along with free copies of his earlier works.

In addition to the readings, Benevento, who will retire at the conclusion of the semester, will perform some “songs of parting” accompanied by Greg Richter on piano, Karen Kubin on violin, and the Benevento Family Singers.

This event is free and open to all. Students, colleagues and friends from Benevento’s Truman tenure have been invited to return, and part of the festivities will include time to reminisce about his 40-year career.