Kate Myers Discusses Excavations Novel at Penn Museum

The author visited the University of Pennsylvania to talk about her book and the upcoming Peacock adaptation.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Lecture and Seminars

Graphic illustration of a book and a pottery shard on a stone pedestal, evoking archaeological and literary themes. — Author Kate Myers discussed her novel 'Excavations' and the upcoming Peacock television adaptation during an event at the University of Pennsylvania's Penn Museum. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should college students prioritize studying unique personal interests over subjects they believe are necessary for jobs?

Author Kate Myers spoke at the Penn Museum about her 2023 novel, Excavations, and the development of the television series Dig. The event featured a presentation and a question and answer session with the audience.

Why it matters

The event highlights the intersection of academic backgrounds and creative writing, specifically how personal history influences contemporary literature and its transition to television.

The upcoming television series Dig will span 10 episodes. The source novel, Excavations, was initially published in 2023.

The players

Kate Myers

She is the author of the 2023 novel Excavations and a 2008 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania.

John Jackson

He currently serves as the Provost of the University of Pennsylvania.

Penn Museum

This is a historic archaeology and anthropology museum located on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania.

The details

Provost John Jackson provided an introduction for the author, who shared insights into how her undergraduate experience at the University of Pennsylvania informed her writing process. The evening concluded with a book signing following a discussion regarding the upcoming Peacock series.

Kate Myers graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2008.
The novel Excavations was published in 2023.
The Penn Museum hosted a discussion with Kate Myers on October 21, 2026.
The series Dig is scheduled for release on November 23, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

This adaptation follows the established pattern of major streaming platforms like Peacock greenlighting limited series based on contemporary fiction. It reflects the broader strategy of utilizing acclaimed literary works to drive audience engagement within the competitive streaming sector.

Viewers can access the 10-episode series Dig on the Peacock platform starting in November. Those interested in the source material can find copies of Excavations at major booksellers ahead of the show's launch.

The takeaway

Authors often draw deep inspiration from their own academic or professional field experiences to shape their narrative work. Following an author's public appearances can provide valuable context before a major screen adaptation reaches a wider audience.