An author and sociologist who specialises in the darker side of New Zealand life is coming to Wanganui next weekend.
Jarrod Gilbert will be speaking at the Alexander Library, at 2pm, November 8.
Dr Gilbert lived with gangs for five years during his research for Patched: The History of Gangs in New Zealand, gaining both a PhD and winning the New Zealand Post Book Awards People's Choice Award for the book. He also researched unsolved murder cases for Bryan Bruce's television programme The Investigator.
Dr Gilbert is writing a new book, and during his Wanganui talk he will share stories from his research into the book, which covers murders committed in New Zealand from pre-colonial times to the present day.
Dr Gilbert said he seeks to enlighten rather than to sensationalise, to identify themes and issues and to raise questions.
"The purpose of the book is to inform the wider public and answer some really important questions, such as what are the pros and cons of the jury system - having a bunch of people from the general public presiding over cases that involve a highly complex set of issues. They don't always get it right."
The event, organised by the Whanganui Literary Festival Trust, is a taster for the popular biennial Whanganui Literary Festival, which will be held in September 2015.
"We are very excited to host Jarrod. He is a stimulating speaker and his work has local relevance," said Gillian Tasker, chairwoman of the trust.
Entry to the event is $10. Book at the Royal Wanganui Opera House.