Author Talk: Janet Saidi with Rebecca Smith

Janet Saidi will discuss her new book, Jane Austen: The Original Romance Author. The book covers moments of Austen's life, both well known and unexpected, that shaped her six published novels. Saidi is a professor in the School of Journalism at the University of Missouri and has  taught writing, editing, and producing content for KBIA-FM. Her work has been featured on NPR, BBC, PBS, and in national newspapers. She is the creator of The Austen Connection, a public-humanities and journalism project that connects Austen's literature to pop culture and current world events today.

Rebecca Smith, a longtime Austen fan, will be joining Janet Saidi in conversation during the author talk. Smith is an award-winning reporter and producer for the KBIA Health & Wealth Desk. She created Missouri Health Talks in 2016 that empowers people throughout the state to share their stories of access to healthcare -- in their own words.

Saidi's book will be on sale for purchase and signing.