Freedom for $28

Those who think that intellectuals are snobby elitists have a prime example in
author Jonathan Franzen. He snubbed Oprah in 2001 — after she endorsed his best-seller The Corrections. The controversy culminated in her formally uninviting him to be a guest on her show and him claiming that the media had taken some of his comments out of context. Pish posh. The fact remains: Franzen writes with heft and insight, and he proves his merits again in his latest novel, Freedom. Hear Franzen speak at 7 p.m. at Unity Temple on the Plaza (707 West 47th Street). Contact Rainy Day Books at 913-384-3126 or rainydaybooks.com for admission to the event; the $28 package includes two entry passes and one copy of Freedom.— Crystal K. Wiebe

Wed., Sept. 22, 7 p.m., 2010