This November, Asian American Arts Alliance (A4) presents a Town Hall centered on creative writing by gathering creative writers of all genres to share their work and knowledge with each other and the wider AAPI community.

Featured presenters include Asha Thanki, who will present on how narration can be a political tool, as seen in her debut novel, A Thousand Times Before, winner of the 2025 Balcones Prize and named one of the best books of 2024 by NPR and The Boston Globe.

We’ll also hear from Wendy Lu, an award-winning journalist, who will present on her debut novel, Casting April, and the importance of disability representation in youth literature. Casting April was selected for the Indie Next List and Indies Introduce, and was called “one of the best surprises of 2026.”

Additionally, the evening will feature a line-up of brief pitches from the community. After the presentations, we’ll host a potluck meal, so please bring something to share; homemade or store bought items are welcome.

This event is free and open to the public. RSVP is required to attend and/or pitch, but you do not have to pitch to attend.

For pitching guidelines and other information about A4 Town Halls, please visit our FAQ. If you have additional questions, please email lxu@aaartsalliance.org.