“Sigh, Gone,” by Phuc Tran Submitted photo

Author Phuc Tran will discuss his book, “Sigh, Gone,” at the Books & Beer Authors Series at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 25, at the Denmark Arts Center.

For anyone who has ever felt like they don’t belong, “Sigh, Gone” shares an irreverent, funny, and moving tale of displacement and assimilation woven together with poignant themes from beloved works of classic literature.

In 1975, during the fall of Saigon, Phuc Tran immigrates to America along with his family. By sheer chance they land in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, a small town where the Trans struggle to assimilate into their new life. In this coming-of-age memoir told through the themes of great books such as “The Metamorphosis,” “The Scarlet Letter,” “The Iliad,” and more, Tran navigates the push and pull of finding and accepting himself despite the challenges of immigration, feelings of isolation, and teenage rebellion, all while attempting to meet the rigid expectations set by his immigrant parents.

“Sigh, Gone” explores one man’s bewildering experiences of abuse, racism, and tragedy and reveals redemption and connection in books and punk rock. Against the hairspray-and-synthesizer backdrop of the ‘80s, he finds solace and kinship in the wisdom of classic literature, and in the subculture of punk rock, he finds affirmation and echoes of his disaffection. In his journey for self-discovery Tran ultimately finds refuge and inspiration in the art that shapes — and ultimately saves — him.

This is a Books & Beer type of season – sit back, sip,  and savor the spoken word. Concessions are available. This event is pay-what-you-can event with a suggested donation of $10 for future authors presentations. Register online at denmarkarts.org/events.

Our HEPA air purifier systems and ventilation will be engaged for indoor performances. Tickets are $10 or pay what you can and can be purchased online at www.denmarkarts.org/events.

The Denmark Arts Center is an award-winning 501(c)3 cultural organization founded in 1994 in the rural community of Denmark. Housed in the town’s historic 1883 Odd Fellows Hall, the DAC offers year-round events and workshops in contemporary dance, theater, music and visual art to community members young and old. DAC is at 50 West Main St., Denmark. For more information, visit http://www.denmarkarts.org.