ONEONTA — Local author Mathias Mietzelfeld will launch his first book, the essay collection “Who Killed Mabel Frost,” written under the pseudonym Miss Unity, from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, April 11, at Roots Public Social Club at 175 Main St. in Oneonta.
According to a media release, the book details Mietzelfeld’s gender transition and subsequent struggles with addiction, poverty, madness and crime.
Essays also describe his detransition, recovery and the beginnings of his artistic and spiritual awakening. It contains mature topics and language. Parental discretion is advised.
Mietzelfeld was born in Cooperstown in 1988. He was educated at Simon’s Rock College, Hunter College, and the University of Chicago. From 2017 to 2023 he performed in drag under the stage name Miss Unity.
He has published writing in Tao Lin’s Muumuu House and Elizabeth Ellen’s Hobart, where he is associate editor. He lives with his parents in upstate New York.
The event will feature readings by Beatrice Huestis, Mark Blickley, Jesse Hilson and two-time National Poetry Slam Champion Sierra DeMulder.
Poet and Hartwick College Professor Emeritus Robert Bensen will serve as host.
A 50/50 raffle will benefit Danny’s Ride, a nonprofit which provides free rides to recovery services for people living with substance use disorder.
Those who plan on attending are requested to RSVP online at https://tinyurl.com/4u73f3xd.