'Whitefish Review' presents author David James Duncan

“Whitefish Review” will host author David James Duncan for a reading and conversation about his newly released book, “Sun House,” on Thursday, Dec. 7 at 101 Central in downtown Whitefish.

“We’re honored to welcome one of our favorite writers who has also been a great mentor to our journal,” said “Whitefish Review” founding editor Brian Schott. “Duncan will be compared in history with the greats of American literature and beyond. He's also tremendously funny. We’re in the field of pure genius here.”

Duncan is the author of the classic novels “The River Why” and “The Brothers K,” the story collection “River Teeth,” the nonfiction collection and National Book Award finalist “My Story as Told by Water,” the best-selling collection of “churchless sermons, "God Laughs & Plays,” and the new novel “Sun House.” Legendary editor Michael Pietsch calls Duncan’s latest book "David’s magnum opus” and writer William deBuys said it is “one of the greatest imaginative achievements I’ve encountered in a lifetime of reading.”

The evening kicks off at 7 p.m. with live music by HOTDäYUM!’, a unique brand of electric funk rock that has been lighting up stages with crafty, original tunes, energetic, infectious grooves, and free-spirited, improvised jams for the past three years. The Whitefish seven-piece band is driven by Vincent Rannazissi on drums, Brian Birdwell on bass, Sam Bassett and David Noftsinger on guitars, Eric Gates on keys, Rebecca Nelson on flute and sax, and powerhouse Shyamali Malakar on vocals. The conversation and reading with Duncan will begin at 8 p.m. 

The event will also include the magical “Montana Project'' guitar conceived by Rick Bass, made from a 300-year-old spruce. The musicians who play the fabled instrument seek to raise awareness and support efforts to save old-growth forests.

A $15 suggested donation is requested to support the non-profit literary journal. After the reading, personally signed copies of “Sun House” will be available for purchase as HOTDäYUM!’ plays a second set. The event will also be streamed live on YouTube.

“Whitefish Review” was founded in 2007 and explores the landscapes of the human condition and our connection to the natural world. The journal illuminates how the confluence of art and science, alongside the complex issues of our planet and people, is vital for the health of all beings. 

The evening is sponsored by Little, Brown Publishing, 101 Central, the Whitefish Community Foundation, Glacier Bank, The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, and Whitefish Mountain Resort. 

To help support fundraising efforts, a 2023-24 season pass to Whitefish Mountain Resort will be raffled in honor of the opening day of ski season, which coincides with the event.

For more information and a link to the live stream, visit www.whitefishreview.org.