New Novel Illustrates Immigrant’s Struggles


Meet the author of The Life of Umberto Cavallo and Other Matters on March 18, 2018

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The Life of Umberto Cavallo and Other Matters, the debut literary novel of Portland author and Marylhurst professor Joel Augee, will be celebrated at a book launch event Sunday, March 18, at 2:00 p.m. in Marylhurst University’s Flavia Salon. Joel Augee will read from his novel, sign books and talk about the writing process, taking questions from the audience. The book, in limited supply, will be available for purchase; it is also available for purchase on Amazon.com.

A finalist in the 2010 Santa Fe Writers Project fiction contest, The Life of Umberto Cavallo and Other Matters is the story of an immigrant’s struggles. It begins in northern Italy in 1885, where Berto, as a small boy, secretly visits his demented grandfather, and upon hearing the old man’s far-fetched anxieties, must decide whether to protect him from his fears. At times comedic and tragic, and spanning not only four continents and five generations, but the width of the human heart in conflict with itself, this compelling novel attempts to answer the question: What is the psychological cost of emigration?

WHAT: Book Launch with Joel Augee: The Life of Umberto Cavallo and Other Matters
WHEN: Sunday, Mar. 18, 2018 at 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: Flavia Salon, Marylhurst University        
COST: FREE

About the Author: Joel Augee grew up in Portland, Oregon and practiced business law for 18 years. Since 2010, he has taught law and writing courses at the graduate and undergraduate levels, and he currently is an assistant professor with the School of Business at Marylhurst University. He is a member of the Oregon State Bar and, when his schedule allows, he handles immigration cases for undocumented and unaccompanied minors, pro bono. He lives in Tualatin, Ore., with his wife and two sons. An earlier version of The Life of Umberto Cavallo and Other Matters was a finalist in the Santa Fe Writers Project fiction contest in 2010.

Founded in 1893, Marylhurst University is a premier, not-for-profit, professionally focused liberal arts and business university. Marylhurst’s community of scholars, professionals and artists offers exceptional master’s degrees, bachelor’s degree completion programs, courses, continuing education and impressive arts, music and cultural events.