PUTNEY, Vt. – Next Stage Arts presents an evening with acclaimed author Victoria Redel in conversation with award-winning writer Robin MacArthur on Friday, May 8, at 7:30 p.m. at Next Stage Arts, 15 Kimball Hill in Putney, Vt. The event will also be available via livestream. Doors open at 6:45 p.m.
Redel will discuss her highly anticipated new novel, “I Am You,” a richly imagined story set in 17th-century Amsterdam. Inspired by historical fact, the novel follows Gerta Pieters, a young girl raised as a boy in service to a Dutch household, and Maria van Oosterwijck, a gifted painter navigating the constraints of the Dutch Golden Age. Through their intertwined lives, Redel explores themes of love, artistic ambition, gender, and identity, illuminating the often-overlooked struggles faced by women in history.
“I Am You” has garnered widespread attention, including recognition as a Bustle Most Anticipated Book of Fall 2025, a Zibby Books Most Anticipated Book of Fall 2025, and a Book Riot LGBTQ Historical Fiction Highlight. The novel also received a starred review from Publisher’s Weekly, was named an Amazon Editors’ Best Book in Literature & Fiction, and was selected as a People Magazine Best New Book. Foreign rights have sold in multiple international markets.
The conversation will be led by Robin MacArthur, whose debut short-story collection, “Half Wild,” won the PEN New England Award. MacArthur’s work has appeared in Orion, LitHub, The Washington Post, and on NPR, and she brings a thoughtful and engaging perspective to discussions of literature and craft.
This event offers audiences an opportunity to hear directly from Redel about the inspiration and research behind her novel, as well as the broader questions it raises about identity, history, and artistic expression.
ByWay Books will be on site with copies of “I Am You” and select titles by both authors available for purchase. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.nextstagearts.org.