Those who read feel empathy more strongly. I have always believed this, and Matt Haig reinforces my stance by making a similar statement during his discussion at the Chicago Humanities Festival.
Every year, the Chicago Humanities organization hosts several author and creative events. They usually take place in the spring and fall. In 2026, the Chicago Humanities organization has already had nearly 60 events. More events may be announced before the year ends.
Many popular and well-known authors are featured at them. This is to promote new books, projects, or just to engage with the local book community. These events are some of the most highly anticipated by passionate Chicago readers
They offer a chance to hear these authors’ insight into the world, their writing process, meet them, and support a valuable and important organization for the city.
Haig is the best-selling author of The Midnight Library, and returns to the midnight world with his latest book, The Midnight Train. His latest book explores a man’s journey back through his life: His mistakes, triumphs, and the lost love of his life.
On June 9, Haig spoke to a near-full crowd in conversation with Cristina Henriquez. He discussed his theories on the Winnie-the-Pooh books being about mental health, his own ADHD diagnosis, his writing process and journey, incorporating mental health into his novels, and many other fascinating topics.
The hour-plus discussion captured your attention and didn’t have a dull moment. Henriquez came prepared to keep the conversation flowing, but Haig’s playful demeanor ensured that there was never room for dead air.
He kept the audience hanging by his every word because of his honesty, humor, and emotional intelligence, which oozed out of him with these thoughtful discussions on life, love, and aging.
I went into the evening not knowing much about Haig, and I have yet to read his books. I just know that The Midnight Library is very popular, but it has divided opinions amongst readers. Some of the biggest complaints I have heard are that his books take too simplistic a style with deep topics.
Haig addresses this main criticism by jokingly discussing his one-star reviews. He enjoys reading them and occasionally likes them. It’s a power move.
During the Chicago Humanities Festival discussion, Haig also mentions one of these negative reviews, saying that his books are like children’s books for adults. He doesn’t take that as an insult, but something he thinks is a good thing.
Children’s books have more value than some give them credit for. They highlight imagination while teaching important life lessons.
Hearing Haig embrace the criticism and his appreciation for children’s literature automatically makes his books move up my to-be-read lists. He talks about how these books became the only things he could read during times of despair.
It’s something so profound, sad, and beautiful about returning to the comfort of childhood literature while dealing with a crisis.
Haig’s ability to be earnest and funny made this event such a success. It’s also a reminder of why attending author events is important.
Even if you don’t know the author well, you can gain some critical insight into their writing, reading habits, and a new look at their books. Many books become more powerful when you learn what they mean to the author.
The evening offered plenty of insight into Haig as an author and a brilliant promotional event for The Midnight Train. You can pick up the book at your local indie bookstore or at a nearby library.
The Chicago Humanities Festival has plenty more events throughout the year, so please check them out.
Thank you to the Chicago Humanities organization for the tickets.
