Program Type:
Author VisitProgram Description
Event Details
Join the Friends of the Coppell Library and the community at An Evening with Laura Gao. Gao is the author and illustrator of MESSY ROOTS: A Graphic Memoir of a Wuhanese American. During the event, attendees will enjoy refreshments and a facilitated Q&A discussion with Gao. A book signing will follow.
Gao is a proud queer Asian-American immigrant, who strives to inspire others to live unapologetically loud. She graduated from Coppell High School in 2014 and continued her education at the University of Pennsylvania. She previously worked as a Product Manager at Twitter.
On March 17, 2020, Gao tweeted:
"Wuhan Virus", "Chinese Virus", COVID-19. Doesn't matter the name - my hometown will forever be known for that and only that. I drew this comic to shine light on what people don't know: the beautiful culture, rich history, and strong people of Wuhan. 加油!"
The tweet linked to a post on her website called "The Wuhan I Know", which featured an original comic detailing the cognitive dissonance between the misinformation and mischaracterization of Wuhan in the media and the birthplace she knows and loves. With 22.2K Likes and over 8,000 retweets, the post went viral.
Messy Roots is Gao's debut graphic novel. Messy Roots is a nuanced, heartfelt, and humorous exploration of Gao’s Chinese American and queer identities. Gao reflects on being an immigrant, navigating racism and discrimination, and growing up in Coppell. As Gao continues to college, she finds a community of Asian Americans and comes out as queer.
Messy Roots has received glowing reviews in Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly, and Booklist. Messy Roots released on March 8, 2022. Place a hold or check the availability of library copies on our catalog. Digital copies available through cloudLibrary.
Disclaimer(s)
Accessibility
The City of Coppell acknowledges its responsibility to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Thus, in order to assist individuals with disabilities who require special services (i.e. sign interpretative services, alternative audio/visual devices, and amanuenses) for participation in or access to the City of Coppell sponsored public programs, services, and/or meetings, the City requests that individuals makes requests for these services seventy-two (72) hours – three (3) business days ahead of the scheduled program, service, and/or meeting. To make arrangements, contact Kori Allen, ADA Coordinator, or other designated official at (972) 462-0022, or (TDD 1-800-RELAY, TX 1-800-735-2989).
Food Allergies
We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.
Photo Disclaimer
Photos may be taken at this event by library staff.