Join the National Writers Series for an inspiring conversation with New York Times bestselling and author Alua Arthur. Arthur’s deeply transformative memoir Briefly Perfectly Human: Making an Authentic Life by Getting Real About the End, reframes how we think about death and how it can help us lead better, more fulfilling, and authentic lives.

For her clients and everyone who has been inspired by her humanity, Arthur is a friend at the end of the world. As our country’s leading “death doula,” she’s spreading a transformative message: thinking about your death—whether imminent or not—will breathe wild, new potential into your life.

Briefly Perfectly Human is a life-changing, soul-gathering debut, by a writer whose empathy, tenderness, and wisdom shimmer on the page. Arthur combines intimate storytelling with a passionate appeal for loving, courageous end-of-life care—what she calls “death embrace.”

Praised by author Jodi Picoult (Mad Honey and The Book of Two Ways) who called it "a truly unique, inspiring perspective on the time we have, what we do with it, and how we let go of this world. There is no one I'd trust more to guide me through an understanding of death, and how it informs life."

Guest Host Dana Black is an executive public speaking coach, moderator, storyteller, emcee, podcast host and creator of I Swear on My Mother’s Grave, and a SAG-AFTRA TV/film/voiceover actor for over 15 years. She has performed on stages throughout Chicago and beyond.

Livestreaming Underwriter: Nancy Davy

Virtual Ticket plus book (ticket fees not included): $38.50 Shipped; $30.50 book-pickup at Horizon Books in Traverse City

Even if you can’t make it to the City Opera House, you can still enjoy National Writers Series events from the comfort of your own home on event night or later on-demand when it’s more convenient.

Each Virtual Ticket includes a private YouTube link to the event, which begins at 6:50 PM. Virtual audience members can contribute questions to the Q&A through a moderated chat.

Shipping is available anywhere in the continental U.S. by our local bookstore partner Horizon Books of downtown Traverse City, Michigan. Actual costs applied at checkout. Signed copies are only available at the live-event.

Book Release Date: April 29, 2025 – Traverse City locals who’d like to read the book in advance of the event may have the option to pick up their copy at Horizon Books. Instructions will be emailed to you after your purchase.

Additional transaction fees are applied at checkout.