In an engaging afternoon event, local author and CSUF Anthropology Professor Karen Stocker will unveil her latest work, “Return to Storytelling: An Inverted Ethnography,” on Saturday, September 12, at 2:00 pm at Allison’s Goods in downtown Fullerton.

The launch party will feature a brief reading from the book, which explores the intricate narratives of healers, community members, storytellers, witches, and tricksters from a nameless Central American Indigenous community. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase limited copies of the book and engage in a community gathering that highlights the importance of storytelling in understanding culture and history.

“Return to Storytelling” is described as a lyrical ethnographic work that challenges traditional historical narratives. Professor Stocker delves into the various ways stories not only document but also shape the frameworks through which individuals interpret their everyday lives and extraordinary events. Her unique approach contrasts academic writing with the oral traditions reminiscent of magical realism in Latin American literature, making the content accessible and compelling to a broad audience.

“By prioritizing community collective memory over colonial narratives, the book promotes a rethinking of ethnographic practices,” Stocker explains. “It encourages readers to navigate the ambiguities between scholarly discourse and storytelling, and to reflect on the impact of narrative in both political and ethical dimensions of life.”

The event, which aims to foster community engagement and dialogue, emphasizes that while books will be available for sale, attendees are not required to purchase anything.

Join at Allison’s Goods, located at 815 North Harbor Boulevard, to support a local author and take part in an enriching exploration of the power of storytelling.