Ken Ellingwood will discuss his new book, First to Fall, a compelling, suspenseful non-fiction account of abolitionist Elijah Lovejoy. “It’s a genetic test for modern journalism, an exploration of foundational American principles— the power of individuals, the fearless defense of a free press, and the deeper values of equality, justice and truth-telling at any cost,” wrote Nancy Gibbs, former Editor in Chief of TIME.

Sponsored by the University of Illinois Department of Journalism, the Hayner Public Library District, and the University of Illinois System Mythic Mississippi Project.