This course will examine novels and short fiction written by Black American and British women from the early twentieth century to the present day, with a focus on thematic threads that run through these texts. Authors may include Larsen, Hurston, Morrison, Ward, Evans, Senna, Gay, Leilani, Jones, and Watkins.

Faculty Bio

Stephanie Wells has a B.A. from UC Berkeley, an M.A. from University of Virginia, and a Ph.D. from UC Davis, with a focus on modernism and postmodernism in American and British novels and poetry. She currently teaches at College of Marin.

This is an In-Person Course

• Classes meet in person at the Golden Bear Center, Suite 202, at 1995 University Ave., Berkeley
• You must be a current OLLI @Berkeley member to register. Learn about membership, including our fee assistance program.

Schedule Highlights

• Course starts on Monday, Jan. 22 and ends on Monday, March 4
• There is no class on Monday, Feb. 19
• Classes meet for six weeks, two hours per session (10-noon)
• Course materials will remain available to view and enjoy through March 31

Member Praise for Stephanie Wells

Absolutely OUTSTANDING! I treasure every moment of this course. Thank you Stephanie Wells for teaching these courses and sharing your insights so freely and enthusiastically. I have learned so much in such a short time. 

An intelligent, stimulating instructor who is well versed in her subject. I would say the same for all of the courses I have taken from Stephanie Wells.

All the material selected was organized, presented and discussed thoughtfully and shared with great insight that expanded my appreciation, perspective of understanding. I found it so exciting and rewarding to both meet and revisit so many authors and explore the wide range of material, subjects and styles explored by these women.

Faculty Q&A

• Read an interview with Stephanie Wells from our archive.