Looking for things to do in Chicago? American Writers Museum launches new American Prophets series for acclaimed fiction writers
Share this @internewscast.com

CHICAGO (WLS) — The American Writers Museum is excited to announce its new special exhibit and programming series.

“American Prophets: Writers, Religion, and Culture” is supported by a $2.5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Religion and Cultural Institutions Initiative.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

A groundbreaking AWM content initiative, American Prophets journeys through the pages of American history and both real and fictionalized spiritual practices to explore the profound ways literature reflects and influences our understanding of religion.

An immersive exhibit opening at the museum in November 2025 will showcase rare artifacts, interactive displays, and related creative works spanning literature, film, music, comedy and more.

AWM invites visitors to discover how storytelling serves as a powerful lens for examining belief systems, personal identity and the ever-evolving relationship between religion and American culture.

Along with a variety of interactives, the exhibit will include a selection of unique objects of religious significance to writers that can be tied to their works. Examples include Flannery O’Connor’s rosary, Ursula K. Le Guin’s annotated copy of the Tao Te Ching, Samira Ahmed’s amulet with a Muslim prayer, Louie Pérez’s statue of the Santo Niño de Atocha, Harold Ramis’ pocket-sized primer The Five-Minute Buddhist and more.

American Prophets programming includes a public event series, field trip curriculum for students from elementary to high school, podcasts and additional online content. For more information, stay tuned to AmericanWritersMuseum.org.

“Because religion is a central theme in American literature, with so many writers influenced by their own and others’ religion or faith, we must explore religion to remain true to our mission,” says AWM President Carey Cranston.

Cranston further emphasized the importance of showcasing the interconnectedness of beliefs through the words of great writers.

In April, AWM kicks off its programming for American Prophets with “Making New Gods,” a free event in partnership with the Chicago Public Library on Tuesday, April 22 at 5:15 p.m. at the Harold Washington Library Center.

Acclaimed and bestselling fiction authors N.K. Jemisin, Nnedi Okorafor, Nghi Vo and Matthew Kirby will talk about how they explore religious beliefs in their speculative fiction.

They will cover topics such as drawing from personal traditions and invented theologies, the importance of considering socio-spiritual systems when world-building, and how these influence the ways their characters move through the worlds they create.

Books will be available from Seminary Co-op to purchase on site, and a book signing will follow the program on a first-come, first-served basis.

More information and registration for the April 22 program is available on the Chicago Public Library website here.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Star-studded gala celebrates Misty Copeland as she takes final bow with American Ballet Theatre in NYC

NYC Gala Honors Misty Copeland’s Iconic Farewell with American Ballet Theatre: A Star-Studded Celebration

NEW YORK — Misty Copeland is set to retire her iconic pointe…
Virginia Giuffre’s memoir reveals how Epstein, Maxwell ‘broke down’ girls step by step in psychological war

Virginia Giuffre’s Memoir Exposes Epstein and Maxwell’s Chilling Tactics in Systematic Psychological Manipulation

Virginia Roberts Giuffre’s first encounter with Jeffrey Epstein’s pink-hued mansion in Palm…
Sonya Massey trial: Opening statements begin in trial of former Illinois Deputy Dean Grayson, accused of murder

High-Profile Illinois Trial Begins: Former Deputy Dean Grayson Faces Murder Charges

In Peoria, Illinois, the trial of Sean Grayson commenced on Wednesday with…
Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich shares message from Catholic Church to undocumented immigrants in US

Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich Delivers Important Message to Undocumented Immigrants in the U.S.

CHICAGO — Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago released a series of videos…
US Marshal, illegal alien shot in Los Angeles immigration operation

US Marshal and Undocumented Immigrant Injured During Los Angeles Immigration Enforcement Operation

In Los Angeles on Tuesday, a U.S. Marshal and an undocumented immigrant…
The Louvre reopens 3 days after one of the biggest museum heists of the century

Louvre Reopens After Daring Heist: Uncovering the Century’s Boldest Art Theft

The Louvre has once again opened its doors to visitors after a…
National Guard Chicago news: Judge to consider extension of order temporarily blocking National Guard in Chicago area

Judge to Decide Fate of National Guard Deployment in Chicago: Temporary Block Extension Under Review

The unfolding story in Chicago has taken a significant turn, as a…
Howard University professor calls on White political allies to emulate vigilante mass murderer

Howard University Professor Urges White Allies to Reflect on Controversial Vigilante Actions

A professor from Howard University known for her far-left views has stirred…
ted cruz, eric johnson, daniel comeaux speaks during conference

Dallas Mayor Criticizes Police Chief’s Solo Move to Turn Down $25M ICE Grant, Sparking Controversy

In Dallas, a debate has erupted among city leaders over the role…
Los Angeles teacher says ICE agents are 'not the only ones with guns' following shooting of federal agent

Los Angeles Teacher Sparks Controversy with Bold Statement on Guns After ICE Agent Shooting

A Los Angeles high school history teacher, who is a prominent voice…
Riverside Church responds to Pride flag vandalism with even more flags

Riverside Church Amplifies Support with Increased Pride Flags Following Vandalism Incident

On October 20, a distressing incident occurred at Riverside Church located at…
Shelters offer free adoptions at Jacksonville Pet Adoption Festival this weekend

Jacksonville Pet Adoption Festival: Free Adoptions This Weekend to Find Forever Homes for Pets

The Jacksonville Humane Society and Animal Care and Protective Services (ACPS) are…