Marjaneh Bakhtiari brings a fresh perspective on recent representations of cultural diversity in Swedish media and society. From the courtyards of multiethnic housing projects to the backseats of immigrant-driven taxis, Swedish journalists have never been more eager to depict their nation's new demographic reality. Bakhtiari explores the assumptions about religion, culture and language that lie hidden behind this newfound interest in multiculturalism.Marjaneh Bakhtiari was born in Iran in 1980 and has lived in Sweden since the age of seven. Her debut novel, Kalla det vad fan du vill (Call It Whatever You Like), chronicles the lives of two Malmö families, the Irandousts and the Sundéns, who meet when their two teenagers begin dating. In scenes alternately absurd and touching, the book shines a spotlight on "new" and "old" Swedes alike.The discussion will be moderated by Peter Leonard, translator and scholar of contemporary Scandinavian literature at the University of Washington. The event is free and open to the public.An Evening with Marjaneh BakhtiariScandinavia House58 Park Avenue at 38th StreetNew York CityDecember 11, 2006, at 6:30 pmFree admission with reception to followFor more information: www.scandinaviahouse.orgPhoto: Marjaneh Bakhtiari, © André de Loisted