Barry Pearce’s New Book Launches Saturday, Inspires Chicago

UPDATE: Writer Barry Pearce is set to launch his highly anticipated book, The Plan of Chicago: A City in Stories, this Saturday at 1 p.m. at Martyr’s. This collection, featuring his award-winning short story “Chez Whatever,” promises to give readers an emotional and vivid portrayal of Chicago.

The launch comes on the heels of Pearce receiving the prestigious Nelson Algren Award in 2019, where his story was selected from over 3,000 entries. While he hasn’t yet seen the influx of agents and publishers many predicted, the award served as a pivotal moment in his career, motivating him to bring this book to life.

Critics have already begun to praise Pearce’s work. Publishers Weekly described his writing as a “solid sense of place,” emphasizing his ability to explore the emotional weight of his characters’ decisions. This is a testament to Pearce’s talent, allowing him to stand alongside local literary giants like Studs Terkel and Sandra Cisneros.

Pearce’s storytelling captures the complexities of Chicago life, reflecting a diverse array of voices and experiences. He boldly addresses themes of race, migration, and community, creating a captivating narrative that resonates with readers.

Additionally, Pearce is expanding his reach with an upcoming essay featured in Chicago magazine’s December 2023 issue. In this piece, he humorously discusses Pope Leo XIV, shedding light on the unique challenges of leading the world’s largest church while drawing parallels to Chicago’s political history.

Raised in the South Shore neighborhood, Pearce’s personal journey is as compelling as his fiction. He is the middle child of seven, with his father, a carpenter from Ireland, instilling the values of hard work and resilience in him. Pearce made history as the first in his family to attend college, graduating from Northwestern University with a degree in journalism.

Beyond his literary achievements, Pearce has contributed to the writing community as a ghostwriter and adjunct professor, all while nurturing his creative ambitions. He currently resides in Lincoln Square with his girlfriend, a therapist dedicated to community health.

As the launch date approaches, anticipation builds for Pearce’s book, which not only showcases his talent but also serves as a beacon of hope for the city. He believes that despite the challenges facing Chicago, there are “glimmers of hope” for connection and unity.

Don’t miss the chance to celebrate this literary milestone with Pearce on Saturday, where attendees can experience firsthand the stories that reflect the heart of Chicago. This event is not just about a book launch; it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and the power of storytelling.

Stay tuned for more updates on Pearce’s literary journey and the impact of The Plan of Chicago on readers and writers alike.