This recording contains three events related to the controversy surrounding Salman Rushdie and the Iranian fatwa declared against him for his novel "The Satanic Verses." The first features many notable authors reading from his book "The Satanic Verses." At the time of this reading three major book sellers—B. Dalton, Barnes & Noble, and Waldenbooks—had pulled the book from their shelves. During the first reading, it is proposed that once the event is finished all present march to a nearby B. Dalton store to picket. Some speakers read from the book (including Joan Didion, Don DeLillo, Robert Stone, and Mary Gordon), while others give speeches in support of Rushdie, as well as on the importance of freedom of expression. Claire Bloom reads from the book, and also reads a statement from Philip Roth. A statement from James Michener is also read by the moderator. Further, former PEN President Norman Mailer gives his take on the situation. Later a press conference is held with statements written by Norman Mailer and Edward Said that are circulated to the press. In addition to selected members of the American Muslim Action Committee, J. Anthony Lukas, Norman Mailer, Letty Cottin Pogrebin, and Robert Massie answer press questions. In the third event, panelists including Carl W. Ernst and Betty Friedan read and discuss various Rushdie works including passages from "The Jaguar Smile," "Midnight's Children," "Shame," and "The Satanic Verses." Other participants include Christopher Hitchens, Gay Talese, Edward Said, Robert Stone, Diane Trilling, E.L. Doctorow, T.C. Boyle, Roberta Smoodin, and Alvin Toffler.
