Gunilla Kester is starting a new Reading Series to showcase some of Buffalo’s literary talent and create a forum for cultural difference and understanding.  She hopes to create a place where everyone can share their writing, find inspiration, and improve their craft.

Gunilla grew up on a gray ugly street lined with Stalinesque dirty yellow tenement houses in Lund, Sweden.  The only colorful place in her neighborhood was “the corner” where all the kids hung out and learned (mostly on their own since their parents worked full-time).  For this group of latch-key kids, the corner was an open, free, nurturing, and democratic space.  Therefore, she has named the new reading program: THE BUFFALO CORNER READING SERIES in memory of her fond childhood space, in hopes that it will create special memories for Jewish Buffalo.

The author and editor of six book in three genres, as well as a classical guitarist, Gunilla came to the United States on a Fulbright scholarship and completed her Ph.D. in English and Comparative Literature in 1991.

You can join Gunilla at the first meeting of the Buffalo Corner Reading Series on Thursday, October 17, 7 – 9 PM at Congregation Shir Shalom (4660 Sheridan Drive in Williamsville).  This program is open to the community and will feature poets, Ansie Baird and Gunilla Kester.  There will also be five open readers followed by a wine and cheese reception.