Award-Winning Author Crystal Wilkinson Serves Up Stories of Food, Family and Imagination at University of Lynchburg
By Rafiul Islam
Author Crystal Wilkinson and a Page of her Book. Photo by Rafiul Islam
The University of Lynchburg community gathered March 12 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. for an intimate evening with acclaimed author and former Kentucky Poet Laureate Crystal Wilkinson, who read from her works and shared insights on writing, food and the power of storytelling.
Wilkinson treated attendees to selections from two of her beloved books, "Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts" and "The Perfect Black." Her readings transported listeners through time and place, exploring the deep connections between family history, memory and the land.
Following the reading, Wilkinson opened the floor for questions from faculty and students, creating a warm dialogue that revealed the heart behind her work.
UofL Community listening to Author Crystal Wilkinson. Photo by Rafiul Islam
Dr. Robert Canida posed a question that brought smiles to the room, asking Wilkinson if her books were food items, what they would be. Without hesitation, Wilkinson replied, "Ice cream."
Student attendee Anandiya John followed up with a question about food's recurring presence in Wilkinson's writing, asking why the theme appears so frequently in her work.
Pictures from Author Crystal Wilkinson’s Books. Photo by Rafiul Islam
Wilkinson's answer resonated deeply with those gathered. Food, she explained, is like love. It brings people together around a common table. She imagined world leaders sitting down to share a simple meal of cornbread and beans, telling their stories to one another, and suggested such an act might solve nearly all the world's problems. For Wilkinson, food represents connection, a way to show love toward family, guests and friends, and a stress reliever in difficult times.
Another student, Anand Ochir, asked about Wilkinson's creative process, specifically whether she researches the backgrounds in her writing or draws from existing knowledge. Wilkinson explained that while some elements come from observation and experience, the heart of her work springs mainly from imagination.
Students taking notes on Author Crystal Wilkinson’s Reflections. Photo by Rafiul Islam
She shared personal stories of growing up as an overly shy girl in a very conservative family. In those quiet years, she found escape and inspiration in pop culture, particularly the music of Prince Rogers Nelson. His artistry influenced her deeply, and she spoke with warmth about falling in love with his music and how it shaped her creative voice.
UofL Community attentively listening to Wilkinson. Photo by Rafiul Islam
The evening closed with a sense of gratitude from those who attended. Wilkinson's presence on campus reminded everyone of literature's power to connect us through shared stories, meals and memories.
Wilkinson's books, including "Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts" and "The Perfect Black," are available for purchase at the university bookstore and through online and local retailers. Students and community members are encouraged to pick up a copy and taste for themselves the richness of her storytelling.
Sources:
1. Crystal Wilkinson
Award-winning author
2. Dr. Robert Canida
Chief Inclusive Excellence Officer
3. Anandiya John
Junior, Class of 2027
johna862@lynchburg.edu
4. Anand Ochir
Junior, Class of 2027
amartua295@lynchburg.edu
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