An Evening with Raj Tawney, Author of All Mixed Up

Raj Tawney will discuss his middle grade novel, All Mixed Up, the story of Kamal Rao, a sixth grader navigating the complexities of life in a suburban town that is far from inclusive.

In 2002, less than a year after the 9/11 attacks, Kamal, a multi-ethnic American boy, often feels out of place and isolated, spending his days creating mud pies or cooking traditional family recipes alongside his mother and grandmother. Kamal's life takes an unexpected turn when Jaz, a Pakistani immigrant, joins his school. Together, they bond over their love for the outdoors and delicious food, forming a friendship that pushes Kamal to reconsider what it means to be different.

Ages 10 and older, plus adults.

Registration required.

Raj Tawney is a New Yorker with a multiracial background (Indian, Italian, Puerto Rican), whose writing explores themes of race, identity, culture, food and history. Without the benefit of a prestigious university or connections, he’s navigated life with passion and persistence, learning to rise after every setback. Tawney has contributed to major publications like The New York Times, The Guardian and USA Today, and delivered talks at universities and institutions including Columbia University, New York University and the New York Public Library.