Book Promotion by Vesna Dedić at the Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia in New York

The work is inspired by the life story of Marina Stajić, PhD, a world-renowned forensic toxicologist and professor with decades of experience in the United States, who served for more than twenty-five years as the head of the Toxicology Department at the Office of Chief Medical Examiner of New York City (OCME).

In his welcoming remarks, Consul General Vladimir Božović, PhD, emphasized the importance of promoting Serbian authors and artists in the United States and bringing contemporary Serbian literature closer to the Serbian diaspora, highlighting that this event represents a successful example of the connection between culture and diplomacy. Welcoming the author and Marina Stajić, he noted that Dr. Stajić is one of the most accomplished Serbian women in the U.S., a recipient of this year’s award traditionally presented by the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York on the occasion of International Women’s Day, and one of the speakers at the Serbian Flag Raising Ceremony held in March this year in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office of New York City.

Reflecting on Vesna Dedić’s distinguished professional career, Consul General Božović particularly highlighted the significance of her television program “Balkan Street” in preserving cultural identity, promoting the arts, and affirming individuals who enrich Serbian society, concluding that the evening was more than a literary event. It represented yet another confirmation of the living cultural ties between the homeland and the Serbian community in the United States, as well as a powerful reminder that culture remains the most beautiful bridge among people and nations.

True to the format of her iconic TV show, Vesna Dedić presented her new book through a conversation with Dr. Stajić, during which attendees had the opportunity to hear firsthand about the life story of this celebrated Serbian scientist, as well as the process behind the creation of the novel, which is largely based on real events and personalities from her life.

Following the presentation, guests of this highly attended event, in addition to receiving signed copies of the book provided by the author, had the opportunity to engage directly with Vesna Dedić and Marina Stajić, asking questions about the novel as well as their extraordinarily successful professional careers.