WEST LONG BRANCH – Andrew Solomon will visit Monmouth University for a reading from his bestselling book, “Far From the Tree: Parents, Children & the Search for Identity,” from 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 24, at Monmouth University’s Wilson Hall Auditorium.
The event, underwritten by BNY Mellon and Monmouth University, is open to the public. The author will be available for book signing and discussion immediately following the reading.
Solomon’s latest work, “Far From the Tree: Parents, Children & the Search for Identity,” received the 2012 National Book Critics Circle Award for nonfiction. The book explores the lives of families that accommodate children with physical, mental, and social disabilities and how these challenges can broaden one’s capacity for love.
Susan Sandlass, the founder of Shore House, believes Solomon’s reading will shed light on the challenges and stigma of raising a child with differences.
“Far From the Tree is an incredible book,” Sandlass said. “Shore House is thrilled to welcome Andrew Solomon to our community so that he can share his stories and wisdom in navigating the often perplexing avenues of support to families coping with children with differences.”
Shore House, a resource located in Long Branch, for people living with mental illness, invited Solomon to the community. At Shore House, members derive invaluable self-worth through mutual support and productivity with the guidance of paid staff members. Through Shore House, people living with mental illness can and do regain their self-esteem, restart their lives, recover, and develop new skills. They integrate into their communities through employment, education and service, which allow them to realize their potential.
Monmouth University’s Department of Counseling and Psychological Services offers holistic comprehensive mental health services for those with mental concerns. “It is great to collaborate with Monmouth University on this event,” Sandlass said. “Their mental services are encouraging, and we can only hope more universities will adopt their practices for students in need of support.”
