Kansas City Mayor Sly James has been the face of Kansas City for eight years. Now, as he completes his second and mandatory final term as mayor, he looks back on a life that took him from his upbringing in a segregated working-class neighborhood to military service in the Marines, a groundbreaking legal career, and ultimately the 29th floor of City Hall.

Launching his new autobiography, A Passion for Purpose, the 67-year-old James will sit down with co-author Sean Wheelock at the Kansas City Public Library Plaza Branch, 4801 Main Street, July 25, with a reception at 6 p.m. and a program at 6:30 p.m.

James will discuss his career and the life experiences that have shaped his values and views, including his fierce advocacy for children’s literacy and education. He leaves office as a strong believer in the efficiency of city government and advocate for implementing its politics to the state and federal levels.

Royals Senior Vice President and General Manager Dayton Moore will offer introductory remarks.