Susan Orlean Kicks Off Winter Words Series in Aspen

The acclaimed author will discuss her new memoir 'Joyride' at Paepcke Auditorium.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 9:23pm

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The Winter Words series in Aspen, Colorado will begin on Wednesday, January 28th with acclaimed author Susan Orlean discussing her latest book, 'Joyride: A Memoir,' at Paepcke Auditorium. Orlean is best known for her 2002 bestseller 'The Orchid Thief,' which was adapted into the film 'Adaptation.'

Why it matters

The Winter Words series is a highly anticipated annual event in Aspen that brings renowned authors to the community. Orlean's appearance kicks off the 2026 lineup and is expected to draw a large crowd of literary enthusiasts eager to hear from the acclaimed writer.

The details

Orlean's 'Joyride: A Memoir' is her latest release, which details her lifelong love of driving and how it has shaped her as a writer and person. The event at Paepcke Auditorium will feature Orlean discussing the book and her creative process.

  • The Winter Words series begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

The players

Susan Orlean

An acclaimed author best known for her 2002 bestseller 'The Orchid Thief,' which was adapted into the film 'Adaptation.'

Paepcke Auditorium

A performance venue in Aspen, Colorado that will host Orlean's talk as part of the Winter Words series.

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The takeaway

Orlean's appearance at the Winter Words series is an exciting opportunity for Aspen's literary community to hear from one of the most acclaimed non-fiction writers of our time as she discusses her latest personal memoir.