Christopher Merrill, director of the University of Iowa International Writing Program (IWP), will read from his most recent books of poetry, Boat and Necessities, at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14, in a free reading at Prairie Lights Books in downtown Iowa City. The reading also will be streamed live on the University of Iowa Writing University website.

Merrill is the author of five previous collections of poetry, 10 books of translations; six edited volumes; and five books of nonfiction, including The Tree of the Doves: Ceremony, Expedition, War. His writings have been translated in 25 languages. He is a member of the National Council on the Humanities and the U.S. National Commission for UNESCO. In addition to his IWP role, Merrill is professor of English in the UI College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all UI-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to attend this reading, call Jan Weissmiller in advance at Prairie Lights at 319-337-2681.

For a UI arts calendar and details about upcoming events visit the Arts Iowa website.