by K.G. McAnally, Staff Writer
BAY ST. LOUIS (GG) — On Thursday, July 17th, 100 Men Hall and Pass Christian Books partnered for a free community event, a Conversation: Prince with C. Leigh McInnis and Dr. Megan Holt. 100 Men Hall welcomed author, poet and scholar, C. Leigh McInnis and Dr. Megan Holt, Director of the Words and Music Festival in New Orleans, as part of a week long (July 14-18) immersive Masterclass on Prince Rogers Nelson.
Since his untimely death in 2016, Prince’s absence is still deeply felt by his fans and his influence was clearly evident during the event, proof that he made a lasting impact with his music, his passion, and his presence.
Prince scholar, C. Leigh McInnis, is well know in academia as a 2025 Finalist for Mississippi Poet Laureate, and the co-founder of the Jackson State Creative Writing Program. He is the author of eight books including collections of poetry and short stories. He is also the former editor/publisher of Black Magnolias and has been featured in various periodicals.
Dr. Megan Holt is the Director of One Book One New Orleans. She is well known as an advocate for adult literacy. Among other accolades and achievements, she has given a Tedx Talk in 2021 and received the Louisiana’s Light Up for Literary Award in 2023. Dr. Holt graciously stepped in for Kiese Laymon due to a family emergency.
As part of this partnership 100 Men Hall books signed by the author, C. Leigh McInnis, is available for purchase exclusively at Pass Christian Books, co-located with Cat Island Coffeehouse at 300 E. Scenic Drive, Pass Christian.
(Photos submitted by K.G. McAnally/The Gazebo Gazette)
