Join us April 22 to learn more about the American Writers Museum’s new exhibit and program initiative, American Prophets: Writers, Religion, and Culture, which examines the relationship between American writers and religion. At this exciting event, award-winning contemporary fiction writers N.K. Jemisin, Nnedi Okorafor, Nghi Vo and Matthew Kirby will talk about religion in their writing, the importance of considering socio-spiritual systems when world-building, and how these influence the ways their characters move through the worlds they create. The authors will sign books following the program.
Public seating for this free event is first come, first served and “Making New Gods” will also be livestreamed on the Chicago Public Library’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.
American Prophets: Writers, Religion, and Culture is supported by a $2.5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Religion and Cultural Institutions Initiative. American Prophets journeys through the pages of American history and both real and fictionalized spiritual practices to explore the profound ways literature reflects and influences our understanding of religion. An immersive exhibit opening at the American Writers Museum (AWM) in November 2025 will showcase rare artifacts, interactive displays, and related creative works spanning literature, film, music, comedy and more. AWM invites visitors to discover how storytelling serves as a powerful lens for examining belief systems, personal identity and the ever-evolving relationship between religion and American culture.
Author bios are available on the AWM website here.
ABOUT THE AMERICAN WRITERS MUSEUM
The American Writers Museum is the first museum of its kind in the United States. The mission of the American Writers Museum is to excite audiences about the impact of American writers — past, present and future — in shaping our collective histories, cultures, identities, and daily lives. The museum is located at 180 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60601, and offers something for every age group including permanent exhibits and special galleries highlighting America’s favorite works and the authors behind them. Tickets to the museum are $16 for adults, $10 for seniors, students, and teachers. Free for members and children ages 12 and under. To inquire about discounted rates for groups of 10 or more, including adults, student travel groups, and University students, visit AmericanWritersMuseum.org/visit/groups/ or call 312-374-8765. Museum hours are Monday, Thursday—Sunday, 10 AM—5 PM. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. For more information visit AmericanWritersMuseum.org or call 312-374-8790.