Best-selling writer speaks Oct. 16 at UI
Monday, October 14, 2013
portrait of Jon Ronson
Jon Ronson

Jon Ronson’s work takes him everywhere—to the weirdest corners of the human mind, sites of mysterious events, and meetings of extraordinary people. Hear about his adventures firsthand when Ronson speaks at the University of Iowa Wednesday night.

The writer and documentary filmmaker will present “Lost at Sea: The Jon Ronson Mysteries” Oct. 16, at 7:30 p.m. in Room W10 of the Pappajohn Business Administration Building. The event is free and open to the public.

Jon Stewart describes Ronson’s work as “satirical investigation,” with strains of both Hunter S. Thompson and Monty Python.

Ronson’s book The Men Who Stare at Goats exposed the U.S. Army’s secret paranormal warfare program, while The Psychopath Test explored psychopathy, sanity, and eccentricity. Last year’s Lost at Sea collects essays that originally appeared in The Guardian newspaper, recounting adventures with real-life superheroes and the story of a man who tried to split the atom at his kitchen table.

The University Lecture Committee is sponsoring Ronson's visit. Next up, the lecture committee will present breast-cancer survivor and "The Silver Pen" blogger Hollye Jacobs on Oct. 21.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all UI-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation in order to participate in this program, contact the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership in advance at 319-335-3059.