Bo Bestvina- Culture Clock

What really makes us human? How would we exist in a dystopian, tech-driven world? Join Bo Bestvina in a discussion of his book to find out!

Imagine a world where everyone is so obsessed with success that they throw away traditions that bring us together, and neglect any creative or playful yearnings from within. Even all the world's toys are tossed in favor of screens for entertainment. Efficiency and looking good are all that matter. Not too hard these days to imagine that, is it?

Culture Clock follows Vic, a retired therapist in a small town that resists the takeover of technology and loss of tradition. In response to humanity's plague of isolation, Vic is called on by a supernatural-being to start building antique dollhouses, as a way to bring people together again.

Vic's daughter Sonata, is a tech CEO who wants to fix the world's isolation problem by growing new human cultures in "Culture Lab," a retreat center that removes highly influential people from technology for three years. As Vic and Sonata work to create new traditions that bring people back together, they deepen their relationship as father and daughter. They get help in the process from Tommy, an orphaned eleven-year-old, and the only child at Culture Lab. Tommy teaches the world's extra-ambitious adults about humor, adventure, and spending quality time together. He teaches them about the successes in life that require letting go.

Bo Bestvina always yearned for what he thought was a normal family. But, instead of grasping for the impossible, he came to appreciate all the people who stepped in to raise him and he began to embrace humanity as his family. Now living in Bellingham, WA, Bo writes about opportunities to find connection and meaning in a confusing and technology-dominated world. He is also a musician and music teacher, which connects him to family members he wishes were still with us. With the help of many others, Bo runs a non- profit called Gifts of Music NW, which brings music education to people who face various barriers.

*Feel free to call Village Books and Paper Dreams for further assistance at 360-671-2626!*

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Village Books and Paper Dreams, 1200 11th Street, Bellingham, United States