An Afternoon with John Dufresne

Join the Books & Books Literary Foundation for an intimate literary discussion with acclaimed author John Dufresne. On Saturday, January 25, Dufresne will explore his latest novel, My Darling Boy, a poignant and darkly humorous story that delves into the struggles of a father navigating the complexities of love, loss and the opioid crisis. This free event offers attendees the chance to engage with the author, with copies of the book available for purchase.

In My Darling Boy, Dufresne weaves a tragicomic tale of Olney, a father determined to rescue his son, Cully, from the depths of addiction in Southern Florida. With the help of his terminally ill girlfriend and an eccentric cast of characters—including an ex-nun, a doomsday prepper and a devout Catholic shelter worker—Olney embarks on a modern-day hero’s quest. Both heartbreaking and uplifting, the novel is a powerful commentary on the resilience of families and the far-reaching impacts of the opioid crisis.

John Dufresne, known for his evocative storytelling and unforgettable characters, is the author of numerous acclaimed works of fiction, nonfiction and poetry. A Florida resident and writing professor at Florida International University, he brings a unique voice to contemporary American literature.