The Esbenshade Series and Marietta College will welcome New York Times bestselling author Mary Roach to the Alma McDonough Auditorium on Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 7 p.m. for an evening that promises to be both educational and humorous. The program will continue the Esbenshade Series’ tradition of bringing world-class thought leaders to campus and the community.
Roach, the author of eight acclaimed books — including “Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers”; “Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal”; “Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void”; and “Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law” — is known for transforming complex scientific topics into entertaining and accessible stories. Her ninth book, “Replaceable You,” was released in September 2025.
In this program, Roach will share hilarious anecdotes, mind-blowing facts, and unexpected realities of the relationship between humans and the natural world, inspired by “Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law.” From bears breaking into homes to “danger trees,” Roach reveals the fascinating and often funny ways nature refuses to follow human rules. Her talk will inspire curiosity, laughter, and a fresh perspective on the world around us.
“Only Mary Roach can make you laugh out loud while learning something you never expected to care about — and then wonder how you ever lived without knowing it. We are honored to welcome her as part of the Esbenshade Series’ 45th season,” said Todd Burge, Esbenshade Series director.
Roach’s work has been published in 21 languages, and her second book, “Spook,” was named a New York Times Notable Book. She has written for National Geographic, Wired, The New York Times Magazine, and the Journal of Clinical Anatomy, and has served as a guest editor for the Best American Science and Nature Writing series. In addition, she was an Osher Fellow at the San Francisco Exploratorium and currently serves as an advisor for Orion and Undark magazines.
The event is free and open to the public thanks to the Frederica G. Esbenshade Memorial Fund. Doors open at 6 p.m., and seating is first-come, first-served.
Marietta College is committed to continuing its longstanding tradition of bringing world-class artists and thought-provoking experiences to campus and the local community. For additional information about the 2025-26 Esbenshade Series, visit marietta.edu/esbenshade-series.