ABOUT THE BOOK

BAM … And Then It Hit Me, a new memoir by Karen Books Hopkins, takes the reader on a funny, sentimental and informative journey encompassing the author’s 36 year career running the Brooklyn Academy of Music, America’s oldest performing arts center. The book is packed with color photos and stories of celebrities, artists and leaders whose creative energy transformed BAM’s historic venues into one of the most provocative and powerful arts organizations in the world.

Hopkins also provides clear and insightful instruction on fundraising and leadership as well as reflections on the challenges and opportunities she experienced as both a feminist and manager. Finally, the whole story comes together as she tells the tale of Brooklyn’s evolution from Manhattan wannabe to the coolest neighborhood on the planet!

TALKS CAN BE ORGANIZED AROUND EACH OF THESE THEMES

1. Artists, celebrities and performances;
2. Fundraising, feminism, and leadership;
3. How the arts build successful and vibrant communities.