On the Same Page will feature “Wandering Stars” by Tommy Orange and “Martyr” by Kaveh Akbar (Courtesy, KDL)
Kent District Library (KDL) is encouraging adults to get “On the Same Page” with reading.
KDL is thrilled to announce the books that will build community as everyone reads and discusses the same titles ̶ Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange and Martyr by Kaveh Akbar.
“Join us for On the Same Page, where our community comes together through the shared experience of reading,” said Hennie Vaandrager, Programming and Outreach Manager at KDL. “Dive into two thought-provoking books and engage in enriching discussions with fellow readers.
“Don’t miss this chance to connect, reflect and explore new perspectives.”
Book discussions and programs
On the Same Page will include book discussions and programs this spring focused on the themes in the books.
A meet the authors event will take place at the Godwin Heights High School Auditorium on Wednesday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the Godwin Heights High School Auditorium. The author event will feature both Orange and Akbar, who share a long-standing friendship.
Wandering Stars has been described as “a lyrical, multigenerational exploration of Native American oppression” by Kirkus Reviews. The Washington Post said Martyr “approaches big questions about personal and civilizational death with a glorious sense of whimsy.”
How to participate!
Because Wandering Stars and Martyr are now the books that everyone will be reading, KDL has purchased many copies to keep the hold times as short as possible. Place your hold today.
A local young reader dives into a story (Courtesy photo)
Free registration for the author event will be required and will open on Monday, March 17 at 9 a.m. Sign up for updates and reminders at kdl.org/same page.
On the Same Page participants should also sign up for KDL’s Let It Snow Winter Reading Club, which runs from Dec. 1 – Feb. 28.
Adults and teens (grades 6 and up) who read six books in various categories will receive a collectible mug. The categories include “Tommy Orange Title” and “Kaveh Akbar Title.” Those who read an additional four books will be entered to win a Kindle Scribe. Learn more at kdl.org/snow.
Local author Tanisha Franklin lives a life of faith – and is sharing her journey of faith and other life lessons through her book, God Changed My Story (GCMS).
“This is the story of my life, and I hope this will help someone learn that what they are going through is only for a season,” Franklin states in the introduction to God Changed My Story.
A call of change
Author Tanisha Franklin has set out on a journey of faith (Courtesy, Tanisha Franklin)
Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Franklin worked full-time jobs outside her home until 2020. In 2019, Franklin felt God calling her to quit her job and write her memoir. Though Franklin thought about writing a book for 20 years, she admitted she never had the courage to put pen to paper.
Franklin was nervous about not bringing in a steady income while juggling a mortgage and family expenses.
“It was difficult because I’ve never not worked,” said Franklin. “It wasn’t that I didn’t trust that my husband would take care of me, but I’ve always had my own income.”
Though she continued to feel God nudging her down a new path, Franklin stalled.
“I just kept beating around the bush,” said Franklin. “Then finally [God] gave me the specific date and said, ‘If you don’t quit your job by January 31, 2020, all these doors I have opened for you, I’m going to close, because you’re not trusting me.
“I decided to quit in 2020 to pursue writing my book.”
Little did she know her world was about to come crashing down.
A journey of heartbreak
On Oct. 28, 2020, Franklin’s 17-year-old son attempted to take his own life.
“I was just devastated,” said Franklin. “I didn’t know what to do, didn’t know where to turn.”
But Franklin was determined to get her son help. However, doctors prescribed anxiety medication without finding the true source of her son’s depression, and her son refused therapy.
During this time, Franklin found out her son had tried to end his life multiple times before.
Franklin was determined to help her son despite multiple medical roadblocks and shocking revelations (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“He tried at 12, he tried multiple times at 15, and at this point he was 17 and tried multiple times,” said Franklin.
What followed was a heartbreaking journey of doctors and therapists, medication failures, a misdiagnosis, insurance concerns, additional suicide attempts – and the revelation that her son suffered abuse from his father at age 12.
Franklin was shocked. Though her relationship with her son’s father was abusive, she never thought he would abuse their son.
Desperate to find help, Franklin emailed yet another therapist. Before she could walk away from her computer, her phone rang. It was the therapist.
“I know it couldn’t be anybody but God,” said Franklin. “My son still sees him.”
Hitting rock bottom
Emotionally drained and fighting anxiety, Franklin began drinking wine after her children went to bed.
Franklin was unemployed and had pulled her 401K to pay their mortgage. Her husband was employed, but they were on a set budget. It felt, Franklin said, like everything was crashing down.
A medical emergency brought on by a mixture of wine, marijuana and her type 1 diabetes landed Franklin in the hospital and suffering from blackouts. Scared, Franklin began to pray.
“I heard God say, ‘You either have to be hot or cold. You have to be with me or the devil. You can’t be lukewarm.’”
Franklin realized she had not been trusting God to take care of her family or following the path God revealed to her. That needed to change, she said – and got to work.
Finding her path
In God Changed My Story, Franklin talks about her life as a child, as a single mother, a married woman and a mother. Franklin said many people feel like there is no “out” from their struggles, but she believes God is using her as a living testimony to say that isn’t true.
“Within the last year, I experienced God like no other,” said Franklin.
The book Franklin sat down to write became two…then three.
“I never had plans of writing the second book, and now there’s a third book,” said Franklin with a laugh.
“We can only go forward”
Franklin’s second book, God Changed My Story: After Healing, A New Beginning, talks about new beginnings after healing from past trauma.
“At the age of five, I was molested by a close family member,” Franklin revealed. “I held that secret for almost 30 years.”
Her parents divorced, her father disappearing from Franklin’s life shortly after. Believing her father chose to leave instead of protecting her, anger kept Franklin from seeking a relationship with him.
As an adult in search of healing from her past, Franklin finally communicated with her father. It was then Franklin learned her father was dying – and he wanted to make amends.
That conversation opened the door to a close relationship with her father before he passed two years later.
“When we’re stuck in our past, we can’t move forward or understand what God is trying to do. All these things that hurt me…it makes me stronger knowing that I can help somebody else.”
Franklin says God gives us one life – and we must live it. “We can’t go backward in time, we can only go forward.”
Opening doors for women
Franklin’s third book, God Changed My Story: I’m Not Superwoman, I’m A Good Woman, will be published by the new year – and is a devotional book for women.
“I’m talking about women [and] bringing God into the equation,” said Franklin. “God has plans for you. God loves you; even if you don’t feel love, God loves you.”
Franklin went on to say that outlandish expectations and harsh judgment are a daily reality for women.
“I want women to know they’re not superwomen…we’re human,” said Franklin. “And we have to realize that every woman comes from a different area in their lives.
“We’re so quick to judge when we don’t really know what a person’s been through. [Other people] don’t truly know you. God truly knows you.”
Natural beauty…and a podcast
Franklin also owns TJW Natural Beauty, a source of natural beauty products for women and men.
Recently, the author and entrepreneur felt called to begin the God Changed My Story podcast, featuring Franklin and three other women who talk about their life journeys.
Tanisha Franklin (second from left) began the GCMS podcast because “there is always more behind the story” (Courtesy, Tanisha Franklin)
“We can go through the same thing, but we all go through it differently, we all react to things differently,” said Franklin. “There’s always more behind the story.”
Franklin is living her dream of having a career that allows her to make her own schedule and have time for her family.
“I didn’t know that it was going to keep me this busy, but it has been wonderful,” said Franklin. “It’s a good busy, especially when you know that you’re doing God’s will.”
Franklin no longer struggles with trusting God’s plan for her life.
“I trust God like no other. I trust what God has told me, he will do. But it’s going to be in his timing. I’m not going to say it’s always easy because it’s not, [but] eventually there’s going to be light at the end.”
“If God did it for me, he’ll do it for you.”
(Courtesy, Tanisha Franklin)
“I want to give back,” said Franklin. “I want to make a difference in my generation.”
Franklin’s desire to help others stems from her belief that God uses our stories to care for each other. She often reminds herself and others to walk by faith, not by sight.
“It’s not what it looks like right now, it’s what it will look like if we trust and walk in faith with God. You just have to be open and allow God to use you. Do that, because it makes you so much happier.
Bestselling fantasy author Erin A. Craig talked with readers about the inspiration behind her new release and her personal writing journey (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
West Michigan author Erin A. Craig has been making headlines with her macabre fairy tales – and her new release, The Thirteenth Child, is no different.
Released on Sept. 24, The Thirteenth Child was celebrated at Schuler Books in Grand Rapids, with its New York Times bestselling author in attendance.
The dark and Grimm
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Craig’s fourth foray into the fantasy realm is inspired by the Grimm brothers’ classic tale, Godfather Death – but with a twist.
“I like to take fairy tales and think of all the ways you can make it even darker than the Grimm brothers did,” said Craig. “[The Thirteenth Child] is no different. This is a retelling of Godfather Death, which is one of their classic top ten fairy tales.”
Though Craig typically enjoys more obscure tales, she confesses The Thirteenth Child is her favorite work to date.
“Usually I like the darker fairy tales that Disney hasn’t really touched on,” said Craig. “They were always the ones I was drawn to as a kid. There’s something fun about being scared.”
While Craig might fantasize about shadows and crave chills, the author exudes light – in more ways than one.
Clad from head to toe in sequins and sparkles for the book launch, the 6’1” author wields a quick wit, sparkling humor and easy smile that are in direct contrast to the dark tales she weaves.
Erin A. Craig (left) answers questions from readers (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
180 rejections and a trademark twist
Before becoming a bestselling author, Craig lived out her love of dark fantasy on theatre stages.
After obtaining a B.F.A. in Theatre Production and Design from the University of Michigan, Craig worked as a stage manager for tragic operas. A ten-year tenure as Director of Production at Opera Memphis in Tennessee led Craig to her husband and, subsequently, the birth of their daughter. The family of three moved back to Michigan in 2020.
“After I had my daughter, I realized the opera stage manager lifestyle doesn’t compete with newborns.” Craig added with a laugh, “She didn’t really like the sopranos. Did not like them.”
Author Erin A. Craig (Courtesy, Cynthia Whipkey)
Staying home with the newest family member, however, left Craig feeling a bit lost.
“My whole identity is what I’m doing,” says Craig. “If I’m not a stage manager, who am I? I wanted to show her that Mom can do all these things…and set a good example.”
Craig unearthed a novel she wrote in college and queried agents, hoping to receive a book deal.
“In my head, this [novel] is the best concept ever!” Craig paused. “I racked up about 180 rejections in six months. I realized this is not the book that’s going to do it.”
Craig decided to retell Annabel Lee, a favorite work of Edgar Allan Poe, with her trademark twist.
After a pitch contest tweet ended with 80 agents asking Craig for the manuscript, she pitched it to ten – and received five offers before the week’s end.
Small Favors, a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin, came next. House of Roots and Ruin, a retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses and Bluebeard, followed.
A twist on the familiar
Craig’s new novel features two embossed cover styles, one for Hazel and one for Merrick (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Craig’s inclination for retelling fairy tales is due to her time as an opera stage manager.
“There are many wonderful modern operas being created right now, but we go back to those classics for 200-300 years,” said Craig. “We want to hear that story told again in a different way and set in a different location. The wonder of taking something familiar and twisting it is always fun.”
The Thirteenth Child explores a unique view on death.
Hazel, the thirteenth child of a couple struggling to make ends meet, is given to Merrick, the god of death. Godfather Merrick gives Hazel the gift of healing and the ability to see the exact cure needed to treat the sick. However, Merrick’s gift comes with a price, and Hazel is also tasked with permanently ending the suffering of those Death claims.
Then Hazel faces a predicament that requires her to choose between her heart and the will of her godfather, sparking a philosophical twist.
Humanity, meet Death
Every person’s lifeline is connected to a candle in The Thirteenth Child (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
That philosophical aspect was what caused Merrick to claim the title of Craig’s favorite character.
“It was really interesting to take death as a character because we have so many cultural representations of him,” said Craig. “The one thing that really drew me to this story wasn’t that [the parents] gave Hazel away to Death, it was that Death came to her. That Death wanted this child.”
Craig pondered what that meant for Death, and what that said about him as a person.
“It was such an eye-opening look into his backstory and his character. He wants this child, he wants someone to care for…he wants a human companion. He wants a legacy of sorts. It was a really fun exploration, and a different look at death.”
Creative and quirky rituals
When asked if she is ever not thinking of a storyline, Craig laughed and said she tries, but gets antsy. “I need something to get characters and banter out, or my head gets very cluttered.”
Erin A. Craig signs books for readers (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Craig keeps a strict writing routine, beginning at 5 a.m. every morning to hand draft her books.
“I really like when the house is dark and quiet. I’ve got this huge window, and when it’s dark outside, all I can concentrate on is the words. And my coffee – I have to have that.”
After taking her daughter to school, Craig types what she has written into the computer, using that process as a first edit. Afternoons are reserved for research.
Since Craig heavily outlines her novels, writer’s block is nonexistent. However, on days when she doesn’t feel like writing, Craig goes for a walk to stimulate creativity.
Craig chooses a particular song for each book she writes, listening to it at the beginning of each writing session to get her into the right headspace. A musical playlist is also assigned to each novel, and is retired after the book is finished.
Fun Facts about Erin A. Craig
Erin A. Craig…
doodled words instead of pictures as a child
carried a Thesaurus throughout childhood and experimented with new words in sentences
owns a mint condition pink 1953 Royal Quiet De Luxe typewriter that receives more tune-ups than her car does
knew her husband was “the One” when he revealed he owned an Underwood typewriter
collects typewriters: “We had 67 when we hit our peak. We pared it down to 23.”
loves the horror novel, The Woman in Black by Susan Hills
regrets listening to the audiobook, Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman, at night
has watched The Others with Nicole Kidman 50 times – with the exception of one scene where she closes her eyes every time
has a secret love of cheesy romance stories
prefers sci-fi over paranormal
hates fairies and substituted fairies in her upcoming adult debut novel (a retelling of Tam Lin) for vampires instead
will not choose between scary stories and horror movies: “Both. That’s a mean question!”
What’s next?
(Courtesy, Erin A. Craig)
Craig’s adult debut novel, A Land So Wide, will be released in 2025 by Pantheon Books. She is currently working on another adult novel inspired by Elton John’s final concert at Dodger Stadium that she dubs “the Elton John cult book.”
Craig is also drafting the third (yet unnamed) book in the Sisters of the Salt series.
Marilyn Emery and Carol Jennings have been friends for over 75 years – and have written about their journey (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
By Deborah Reed
WKTV Managing Editor
deborah@wktv.org
“The Power of Friendship” contains lessons Emery and Jennings have learned through the years (Courtesy photo)
The friendship of Wyoming women, Marilyn Emery and Carol Jennings, began in the late 1940s as they walked to kindergarten each day. That bond has only strengthened over the past seven decades, culminating in a book written by both Emery and Jennings.
The two lifelong friends recently celebrated the story of their friendship with a presentation and book signing at The Bookman in Grand Haven.
“It is our hope that many readers will receive our positive message of love, hope, and the importance of lasting friendship,” Emery and Jennings state in their book.
It is not a passive message. The women hope their story inspires others to actively seek out the kind of friendship they share.
“We want this for other people too, so they can experience what we experienced,” said Emery.
The start of forever
The two friends laugh in a photo booth (Courtesy Emery and Jennings)
Both Emery and Jennings grew up in West Michigan, eventually ending up on the same block of Delwood Avenue in Wyoming. They walked to and from school together, and would often play at each other’s houses after school.
“I liked her house,” Jennings said with a laugh. “Marilyn had a big family.”
But Emery preferred playing at Jennings’ house.
“I loved to go to Carol’s because she was an only child and there was peace at her house,” said Emery.
Part of the Godfrey-Lee school district, Emery and Jennings formed the Draco Horizon Club in 8th grade. Ten of those 12 members remained forever friends.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“We were known as the group who had fun,” said Emery. “That camaraderie stayed with us throughout our whole life.”
The Draco girls were adventurous, renting a cottage overlooking Lake Michigan each summer, joyriding in Carol’s boyfriend’s car past curfew – and more.
Their adventures earned Emery and Jennings the nicknames Thelma and Lou in honor of the show Thelma and Louise.
“I loved that show,” said Jennings. “It was a friendship and a bond these two ladies had. They reminded me what Draco meant to me. The Draco’s are always there; we still get together every month in the summertime, and we talk about life.”
On the same beat
Emery said similarities in their lives (school, marriages, etc.) played a role in the women becoming such good friends. Jennings believes the Draco group was also a contributing factor, as was writing The Power of Friendship.
Together, they share a deeper connection resembling that of family.
“You can talk to other friends, but who are you going to call when you’re in need, or if you want to celebrate something together?” said Emery. “She’d call me, and I would do the same. Like you would a sister.”
Marilyn Emery (left) talks about the ways her friendship with Jennings has lasted through the years (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Emery and Jennings cared for each other when their parents died. When Emery’s first husband passed away in his early 50’s, Emery was left with three children to raise on her own.
“I was alone for 10 years,” said Emery. “Carol was there for me during that time.”
It comes as no surprise then, that when asked to describe Jennings in one word, Emery said: caring.
“You can’t really explain it, but you’re on the same beat with each other,” said Emery. “We figure we’re sisters. Not blood sisters, but we are sisters because we know each other so well…We just get each other.”
That deeper connection allows the women to pick up where they left off, no matter how long they might be apart.
Tragedy – and a promise
It was shortly after Emery remarried that she received a phone call that Jennings had an ischemic stroke. Emery rushed to Jennings’ side.
“All the way there, the word promise kept going through my mind, and it just wouldn’t stop,” said Emery.
Carol Jennings (right) shares about the challenges and recovery of her stroke (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Jennings’ right side was paralyzed and she struggled to walk. She could only speak one or two words in isolation due to aphasia.
But when Emery walked into her hospital room, Jennings grabbed her hand.
“A tear came down the left side,” said Emery. “And I kept thinking: promise. She didn’t look quite the same as what she did, but it didn’t matter because she was still alive.
“I said, ‘Carol, the word promise keeps coming to me, so I think we should write our life story.’ She grabbed my hand.”
Park benches, hats – and ice cream
Jennings attended therapy at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids, but Emery also worked with Jennings on her speech and comprehension.
Marilyn and Carol graduating from Aquinas College a bit later in life (Courtesy photo)
“When you have aphasia, you just don’t know what the word is,” said Jennings. “I knew what I wanted to say, but it didn’t always come out.”
“She’d be telling you something and then stop,” said Emery. “I would try to make her tell me more. She made so much progress.”
Emery and Jennings would meet on park benches at various parks. Jennings would say one or two words and Emery would write them down, then expand on them.
“She really has a knack for writing and putting the right words to what I want to say,” said Jennings.
“One of the first things I said to her was: God,” said Emery. “She said: center. So that has guided us throughout this whole book. That God brought her through the stroke, and He is the center of our lives.”
The Promised Piece, an inspirational journey of two lifelong friends, was published in 2017.
But wait – there’s more!
Shortly after The Promised Piece was released, Diane Jones, retired owner of the Carnevale Jones Group consulting firm, read it and approached Emery and Jennings.
Diane Jones (center) was the catalyst for “The Power of Friendship” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Jones said she enjoyed the book – but knew there was more to tell.
“In meeting with the ladies, they had such a great story to tell and I thought, there’s so much missing,” said Jones. “So I asked them if they would consider doing a longer version of the book.”
Shortly after, The Power of Friendship began taking shape.
Emery and Jennings met often to discuss the book. Their meetings always included park benches, hats…and ice cream.
“I could tell when she was ready to have ice cream,” said Emery, noting that Jennings would become restless. “Then I could get more out of her while we were eating because she was happy she was having ice cream.”
Jennings added, “[The book] gave me a new purpose. I think I needed that to get better.”
Loving through friendship
When talking about her friend, Jennings describes Emery as spiritual, and has watched Emery put her faith into practice throughout their friendship.
Emery explained, “I like to say it’s a God thing. God wants us to love Him, and He also wants us to love our neighbors as ourselves.”
And they choose love through friendship.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“It’s not just about Carol and me, it’s about everybody,” said Emery, adding that she loves to hear when a reader has passed on The Power of Friendship to someone else. “We want everybody to find old friends, new friends and to keep friends. That’s our story.”
To find out more about The Power of Friendship, click here.
Well-known among young readers throughout the state for his Michigan Chillers and American Chillers book series, Rand believes in the power of storytelling.
(Courtesy photo)
“Reading is great for everyone, and the earlier we begin, the better,” says Rand. “I think reading/storytelling is what really fires our imaginations, at least early in life.
“Fun events like Garfield Park keep kids engaged and reading throughout the summer months.”
Reading is a must – growing up is debatable
(Courtesy photo)
Keeping kids engaged is vital in preventing “summer slide.” Summer slide refers to a decline in reading, writing, math and science skills during the summer months when youth are not in school.
Storytime in the Park was founded by Dr. Barbara Lubic, GVSU Associate Professor, and Barbara Bush of Sundaes in the Heights in an effort to keep kids active in learning throughout the summer months.
Now in its 15th year, Storytime in the Park takes place at Garfield Park every Tuesday, June through August, from 6:30-8 p.m. A special event is featured each week, along with read-alouds throughout the night.
Each attending child receives a free book, and every family member gets free ice cream.
Rand traces his own love of reading back to when his parents read to him as a child.
“I loved stories, and was fascinated by the other worlds I was transported to. Additionally, both of my parents read for pleasure, and I saw them reading quite often. We had books readily available all over the house, and I thought that books were cool.”
Rand admits that he began reading at an early age because he thought that was what all grown-ups did.
“I wanted to be a grown-up as quickly as possible. Whether or not I actually grew up is debatable, but my love of reading and stories continues to grow even to this day.”
Creativity = Freedom
A love for reading, Rand says, is far more than just enjoying a story.
“When children read a book that excites them, often they desire to write their own stories,” says Rand. “They begin learning how to create, how to plan and form stories in their head even before they put them down on paper.
Reading can ignite many forms of creativity (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Years ago, Frederick Douglass said that reading is ‘the path from slavery to freedom.’ Over 100 years later, the late Carl Sagan quoted that phrase and added that ‘there are many types of slavery and many types of freedom, but reading is still the path.’”
Rand’s experiences as a writer and instructor have shown him that the word successful carries a different meaning for him than it does for others.
“One of the most exciting things I’ve seen in kids who attended Author Quest (our summer writing camp for kids), is how so many of these children have grown up to be happy, successful adults,” says Rand.
“And when I say ‘successful,’ I’m not talking about good jobs with a stable income. I’m talking about true happiness, living life creatively, with a fulfilling, worthwhile purpose.”
Rand continued to say that while many of those children did not embark upon a path of writing, the reading and writing skills they cultivated in their youth had a direct and positive effect on their future.
Funny, offbeat and irreverent
Sparking creativity can lead to lifelong success (Courtesy, Ken Wright Author Quest)
The Michigan author is looking forward to the Storytime event and says he hopes to meet many parents because he believes the love of reading begins in the home.
However, the author also simply enjoys talking with youth of all ages. This has led Rand to speak at thousands of schools and teach writing skills through Author Quest.
“I make it no secret that I take a very guilty pleasure in my presentation to kids of all ages,” says Rand. “It’s important for me to get my message across, and that message really has nothing to do with the books I write.”
Though Rand loves hearing that children enjoy his books and appreciates the ability to earn his living through storytelling, he is aware not all children will enjoy the books he writes. And that is fine with him.
“I designed my program to be funny, a little offbeat and irreverent, and engaging. The message that I want to drive home is very clear: if you can read well and you can write well, you’re on your way to doing anything.”
When Rand speaks at schools, he takes it very seriously and gives it his all.
“I know it sounds strange, but the more I give, the more I seem to get,” says Rand. “It really is give and take, and my programs for kids have become a big part of what I do.”
Sharing creativity and a…Bigfoot Beast?
Rand plans to share some of his own background as well as read from his new Michigan Chillers novel, #21: Boyne City Bigfoot Beast, set to be released this summer.
Rand’s new Michigan Chillers novel is set to release in summer of 2024 (Courtesy photo)
“I’d like to combine a little bit of background information about myself in order to give kids a jump start with their own creativity, to let them know that they can do the same thing,” says Rand. “They can write a book, right here, right now.”
Registration and more information about Storytime in the Park can be found on their website and Facebook page.
In November 2023, Kent County voters approved a 15-year renewal millage for the award-winning Kent District Library system. However, the approved ballot language does not give KDL the authority to assess the new millage until December 2025, resulting in a one-year funding gap.
KDL will ask voters to consider a one-year nonrenewable millage at a rate of 1.1 mills on the Aug. 6 ballot that, if approved, will support the system’s 2025 operations.
Gap millage details
The gap millage is at the same rate property owners pay now, and there is no overlap with any other KDL millage.
If approved, the millage will generate $27.6 million, which will cover the expense of physical and digital collections, employees, programs and events, tech tutoring and other library services, rent and other expenses in 2025.
KDL Outreach and Programming Specialist Susan Erhardt reads to children (Courtesy, KDL)
The average homeowner in the KDL service area would pay $145.75 annually for access to its broad array of services – or about $2.80 per week, less than the cost of most cups of coffee, which is the same as what they are paying now.
“More than 90% of KDL’s operating costs are paid by millage dollars,” KDL Executive Director Lance Werner said. “An issue with the 2023 millage dates occurred inadvertently and has resulted in our need to go back to voters for a one-year millage to fill this funding gap. There’s no overlap and no double-dipping.
“If the gap ballot question does not pass voter approval in this election cycle, KDL will be forced to make substantive cuts to our team, hours, branches, services and programs in 2025.”
If passed, the millage will be used for KDL operating costs (Courtesy, Sophia Rolfe)
The millage will be levied Dec. 1, 2024 to fund 2025 library operations until the 15-year renewal millage can be accessed in December 2025.
This is a one-time request to bridge the funding gap in 2025. KDL will not ask for a renewal of this millage.
How KDL serves the community
KDL serves more than 440,000 residents in 27 municipalities through 20 branches, an Express Library, a bookmobile, its main service center, 5,000-plus annual in-person programs and a host of patron-focused services, from in-branch printer/Wi-Fi access and loanable mobile hot spots to early literacy initiatives and an extensive assortment of talking books and Braille resources.
KDL Grandville Branch Library Jocelyn talks with a patron about book selections (Courtesy, KDL)
Early literacy and education partnerships are a cornerstone of KDL service for the community. KDL has a long-standing tradition inspiring students to continue their learning through the summer. In addition to helping students and their families directly, KDL provides a wide array of resources to teachers, which can be found online here.
KDL’s collection is comprised of more than 700,000 physical items and 15.6 million digital items. These include books, e-books, apps, magazines, movies, television programs, audio books, video courses, video games, music, online databases, research materials and at-home learning materials, as well as access to statewide materials and collections.
KDL works to provide a variety of resources and materials for the community (Courtesy, KDL)
In 2023, total circulation rose 8% to more than 7.6 million while public computer usage grew 18% and Wi-Fi usage grew 6%. KDL is in the top 50 libraries worldwide for OverDrive digital circulation.
Known for family-friendly programs, KDL offers more than 6,400 programs and outreach events each year, from popular baby/toddler/preschool storytimes, learning labs and craft classes to book clubs, concerts and special activities.
The system employs more than 340 people and receives 5,900-plus hours annually from more than 650 volunteers.
Resource links
“KDL remains committed to fostering a lifelong love of reading, learning and critical thinking,” Werner said. “Funding from this millage is critical in order for us to continue to operate and provide resources for all in our community throughout 2025.”
More information on the one-year millage proposal and a millage calculator can be found here.
More information on KDL and the services and resources they offer can be found here.
“I feel compelled to serve others through the written word not only to help them improve their skills and passion for storytelling, but when I do it, I feel like I’m contributing something important to humanity,” said Penn.
Through her company, Pages Promotions LLC, Penn offers editorial, book design, mentoring and marketing services. In addition, she hosts an annual virtual book festival for independent authors, the “Indie Reads Podcast” and offers 2-3 community service anthology projects each year.
Flights of Fantasy is the most recent anthology project currently accepting submissions.
“For this collection, we are calling for stories and poems written specifically with children in mind,” Penn says on her website. “Each story or poem must include the concept of flight or the action of a person, animal, fantastical being, or thing flying.”
(Supplied)
Submissions must be 200-10,000 words and rated “ALL” for all ages. Multiple submissions and previously published works are accepted, and there is no entry fee. All ages are encouraged to submit, though parent/guardian permission is needed for those under age 18.
Submission deadline is April 30. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the Haley Sue Foundation.
Community service…through writing
Since 2014, Penn has facilitated and published 26 anthologies. The anthology quest began when her son was required to perform a certain number of community service hours in order to graduate high school.
“He was frustrated that so many of the options he had were performing manual labor,” said Penn. “He asked why he couldn’t do something creative, something that had a more lasting impact.”
Together, Penn and her son developed the idea of using their imaginations to serve. They talked with his teachers, suggesting students use their computer time to strengthen their English composition skills.
“The concept went over very well, and I’ve been facilitating these anthologies ever since.”
(Supplied)
Penn sees the anthology projects as confirming the value of creative writing as a legacy for the community and promoting literacy in an exciting way.
“It is also a spectacular way for new writers to ‘test drive’ the writing process, see their work published, and discover if a larger writing career is something they want to pursue,” said Penn.
Leaving legacy through literacy
When asked what drives her to support lovers of the written word, Penn quoted the film The Dark Crystal: “Writing is words that stay.” Penn believes that is at the core of why she is passionate about written communication and storytelling.
“I’ve always held the belief that writing our stories – whether fiction or nonfiction – is the best way to record a history and connect future generations to the life we’ve lived,” said Penn. “Story is the touchstone that teaches us about the customs, mindsets, possibilities and struggles humanity endures and thrives in and past.”
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Penn went on to say that stories help us to live up to the standards we imagine we are capable of achieving. Stories give us permission to embrace all emotions and the wonderment found in places that perhaps we may not have thought to look.
“We can learn so much from those who put words on the page, emotionally, socially, intellectually, and in a myriad of other ways. To my mind, the most important job in society is that of the librarian, for they keep everyone’s memories, lessons, expectations, and possibilities safe for generations.”
Because of this, Penn donates the time she puts into the Pages Promotions anthologies.
“My main goal in life is to create more words that stay,” said Penn. “That is a life’s calling…money isn’t the goal. Much like the soul who plants a tiny tree, I may never spend time enjoying its shade when it matures, but I live enthusiastically through the idea that others will enjoy the tree long after I’m gone.
“I think that’s worth a little bit of extra effort without the instant gratification of a larger bank balance.”
Advice for those who love the written word
Penn’s advice to both youth and adults who are hesitant to begin writing:
Writing is best discovered through a series of gentle ramps, not steps or cliffs.
Start with something that really speaks to you. Write that story down privately. Don’t show anyone. Just keep it for yourself in the beginning. Realize that every writer on the planet, past, present or future, has begun in the very same way, insecure and bursting with ideas.
(Courtesy, Pages Promotions)
Once you’ve spent a little time doing it just for you, share some of it with someone you trust. Find out what they respond to, what seems to touch them, and then build on that aspect until you are brave enough to give a story to the world that you are proud of without expectation of accolades.
And then…keep doing that.
The most important thing to remember is that there is no wrong or right way. No musts and no shoulds (except for the basics like grammar, spelling, and punctuation).
Writing is a gift we give of ourselves to everyone around us. You choose the speed, the style, the outer wrapping; and when you’re ready, give it away.
Keep writing, keep sharing…
The world needs your voice so they can find their own. The world needs to understand your perspective so they can investigate their own.
Life can’t happen in isolation. Life needs imagination and passion to thrive and grow. If you don’t add your voice…your story to the noise of the world…people will become far less than they could be, restricted in their experience of living.
Learn more!
To learn more about the Flights of Fantasy anthology and how to submit, click here.
To learn more about Pages Promotions services, click here.
More than 1,150 writers across Michigan entered the 12th annual Write Michigan Short Story Contest that began accepting submissions in September 2023. Among the entrants were 441 adults, 461 teens and 260 youth.
Write Michigan’s annual short story contest provides a chance for all ages to be published (Courtesy, KDL)
Winners were chosen by public voting for the $250 Readers’ Choice award, and by a panel of judges for the $500 Judges’ Choice and $250 Judges’ Choice Runner-up awards.
Write Michigan winners will be honored at an awards ceremony on March 23. The ceremony will feature a keynote address from author Gary D. Schmidt.
WKTV Journal recently caught up with a few of the entrants for an inside look at the winning stories and the inspiration behind them.
Unique perspectives are a hallmark of Koroglu’s writing (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
A Long-Forgotten Memory: Told from the perspective of an old tree named Maple, the story is about the relationship between the tree and Amber, the new owner of the house where Maple lives. During the story, Maple and Amber uncover their forgotten past together and learn to appreciate themselves in new ways.
Eleven-year-old Leyla Koroglu entered the Write Michigan contest after seeing an advertisement at her local library.
“It inspired me to write a new story,” said Koroglu. “I like to write stories from unique perspectives.
“I wanted to explore the perspective of a tree in A Long-Forgotten Memory because trees can grow so old and experience so much, but they can never move. I also wanted to think about what kinds of feelings a tree might have.”
Koroglu has been writing pieces of stories she made up since she was very young.
“I like creating stories that have meaningful messages behind them,” said Koroglu. “A Long-Forgotten Memory shows that even if you feel helpless, you can still be very special to someone else.”
Winning the Judges’ Choice Award meant a lot to Koroglu because she didn’t expect to win. The young writer is excited to write another story for next year’s contest.
Teen Judges’ Choice Winner – Sonja de Wilde (Grand Rapids, MI)
A House with a Garden: “Werewolf of London” meets “Southern Gothic.” Two characters in a backwoods mining town have a dream to live a more peaceful life, but their personal demons get in the way. Though they love each other, it is not enough, and they end up succumbing to their environment.
All you need is…more than love (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Sixteen-year-old Sonja de Wilde entered the Write Michigan contest for fun when she found out a friend was also participating.
“I never actually expected to win,” said de Wilde. “It was just something fun to work on together. We read each other’s stories while we were writing them, and talked about our ideas and writing.”
De Wilde said she has been writing stories since she can remember, but had difficulty finishing them until recently.
“I’ve always had a difficult time following through on any one idea,” said de Wilde. “Perhaps because it’s too daunting at the moment, or I come up with another one that I think is better.
“One day I hope to write a novel or two, but I have a lot of work to do before I get there, I think.”
A House with a Garden was inspired by a modern Southern Gothic novel de Wilde read over the past summer.
Write Michigan has helped de Wilde see a writing project through to the end (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“That book had an enormous impact on me,” said de Wilde. “I still think about it almost every single day.”
The teen writer also finds inspiration in music, and she often writes while listening to specific playlists. De Wilde also writes music, and is working on a Southern Gothic-inspired album.
“The album’s story is very similar to this [story],” said de Wilde. “I’d say A House With A Garden encapsulates the third act of the album.”
De Wilde said she will never forget the moment she realized she had won the Judges’ Choice award.
“I was in my room, finishing homework, and I looked up and my inbox said (1). I opened the email, and I just remember a flood of shock and amazement,” said de Wilde. “I ran downstairs and told my mom right away, and we were both screaming and jumping around in the kitchen.”
“It really was such an incredible moment,” de Wilde continued. “I entered for fun, and all of a sudden the judges think my writing, my little story, deserves the top award in my category.
“I am just so proud of myself, and so grateful for the people around me who encourage me every day to know my worth, and the worth of my work.”
Gambler’s Rest: After his wife’s death during a poker game, a grieving card sharp finds his way to Gambler’s Rest—a dismal afterlife where the dead gamble for memories. To bring her back, he must play the highest-stakes card game of his life.
Ghouls and gambling – a high-stakes story (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Joshua Boers entered the Write Michigan contest after his cousin suggested they both submit stories.
“I find it so much easier to finish a story when I’m accountable to someone and I have a deadline, so this was a great arrangement for me,” said Boers.
Inspired by a They Might Be Giants rock band song about ghouls, Gambler’s Rest came to fruition after several weeks of planning.
“I spent a few months working and reworking the outline—trying to find the characters, tone, and plot,” said Boers. “I eventually took some inspiration from the poem Sir Orfeo, a medieval retelling of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth where a king must rescue his wife from a fairy court.
Some stories take research and planning (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“After that, I just had to learn how to play poker, and then the writing could begin in earnest.”
Having written several poems and stories when he was younger, Boers picked up the hobby again in earnest after taking a creative writing class at Calvin University.
“[Writing] can be a slow process, but it’s exciting when you feel like you’re on the trail of something interesting,” said Boers.
That “something interesting” won Boers the Judges’ Choice award.
“It was a surprise,” said Boers. “I knew I’d be up against hundreds of people, so I didn’t expect to be selected as a semifinalist or to win the Judges’ Choice award.
“It makes me more excited and more confident as I move on to new writing projects.”
Published Finalist – Margaret VanHaften (Frankfort, MI)
Gristle, Witch Hazel, and the Kickball: Lizzy, a nine year-old in the 1950’s, wants to be part of the neighborhood kickball team. She thinks her birthday gift, a real kickball, will be the key to entry. But, Gristle, the neighborhood bully, gets the ball from her and kicks it into Witch Hazel’s yard. Witch Hazel is said to mush-up children who come into her yard and put them into her banana-nut bread, a definite deterrent to kids retrieving lost balls.
Lizzy, embarrassed, intimidated and angry, has to figure out how to handle her problem. She learns how to discern what people tell her and handle challenges.
VanHaften’s submission carries a message about overcoming adversity (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Though Margaret VanHaften has loved writing fiction since the 1950s and has an avid imagination, most of her school and career experiences required technical writing.
“Now I have time to write the fiction I love,” said VanHaften.
However, VanHaften admitted that she rarely sends her writing out for publication.
“Write Michigan is a safe way to start,” said VanHaften. “I like the way the scoring grid clarifies what the judges are looking for – I use it regularly now.”
Lizzy’s story came to VanHaften as many of them do – as soon as her head hits the pillow at night. A process that, though it does not help her sleep, helps her write.
“I don’t know where the stories come from, but I’m glad they arrive,” said VanHaften.
Upon learning she was a Published Finalist, VanHaften said she was surprised, but grateful her story resonated with readers.
“That is my goal, to connect to readers in a meaningful way.”
Link to full list of winners – and more!
To see a full list of Write Michigan 2024 winners, click here.
To learn about other Write Michigan events, click here.
Learn more about KDL opportunities and events for the community by visiting their website.
Award-winning local author Susie Finkbeiner wrote her first novel in secret.
“I would sneak out and go to a coffee shop and write for an hour,” said Finkbeiner. “Nobody knew I was writing a novel. Not even my husband.”
Since that first novel, Finkbeiner has written several more, with awards following close behind.
Two-time winner of the Michigan Notable Book Award, a Christy Award Nominee and Selah Award Finalist, Finkbeiner is making waves in the historical fiction genre.
Stories = Love
The Wyoming author is more thrilled to have the opportunity to be a full-time storyteller than she is by awards.
“My family is very story-centric,” said Finkbeiner. “My dad is also a novelist, and he would always tell us stories. My mom would read to us all the time, and do the voices of the characters.”
One of Finkbeiner’s earliest memories is of her big sister reading a story to her.
“When [my siblings] had to practice reading, my mom would send them to read to me,” said Finkbeiner with a laugh. “My big sister reading a story to me, I felt very loved.
“That is the feeling I associate with that memory. So in my mind, sharing stories equates to sharing love.”
That value of books and stories is something Finkbeiner tries to instill in her own children.
Writing in the margins
Finkbeiner was writing plays for a local church and blogging snippets about life when a friend said she should write a novel.
At first, the idea seemed crazy to Finkbeiner. Then… “That little seed of a thought kept growing.”
Chasing after three young children and being employed didn’t leave a lot of time for writing. That time was carved out in quiet moments at coffee shops and while her children were sleeping.
Finkbeiner’s first novel began in a coffee shop (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“I would write when they were napping, I would write when they went to bed,” said Finkbeiner. “I really wrote in those margins.”
After finishing the first draft, Finkbeiner thought it might have some potential.
“I never knew if it would go anywhere,” said Finkbeiner. “I got a lot of rejections.”
After several of those rejections, Finkbeiner decided to change course for bit.
What did I get myself into…?
Finkbeiner posted on Facebook, committing to writing as many short stories as she was given ideas for during the month of September.
“I thought I would get three or four,” Finkbeiner said. “I got 32.”
With each story 1,500 words or less, the process taught Finkbeiner how to get to the point, characterization, and about working toward a deadline.
“It stretched me,” said Finkbeiner. “They would paint me in a corner and I had to find my way out. I learned so much.”
But Finkbeiner has no plans to repeat that challenge.
“I don’t know if I could ever do it again. Now that I write such long pieces, 1,500 words sounds like a sprint.”
While Finkbeiner was posting 32 stories in 30 days, an editor was paying attention. Shortly after that short story challenge, Finkbeiner received a request for her novel.
The rest, as the saying goes, is history.
History? No, thank you!
While Finkbeiner’s novels are centered around historic events and times, it took some time for her to embrace the genre.
“My first two novels were contemporary because I didn’t think I could write historical fiction,” said Finkbeiner. “It seemed too daunting to me. In my mind, historical fiction was the 1700s, 1800s, the Civil War. I just didn’t want to reach back that far, so I thought [that genre] wouldn’t be for me.”
Another deterrent was that most historical fiction Finkbeiner saw was centered around romance – a genre she was not comfortable writing.
After reading a novel set in the 1930s, however, Finkbeiner realized she could write a Depression Era book.
“It worked,” said Finkbeiner. “And I realized how much I love the research. The 20th Century is fascinating. So much happened in this very condensed amount of time. And the research is a lot easier to access.”
The author especially enjoys talking to people who have lived experience in certain time periods.
“My dad wrote his memoirs of his time in Vietnam for me to use as research,” said Finkbeiner. “[I talked] to my mom about how she straightened her hair. It helps me feel connected to my grandparents and my parents in a way that I don’t know that I could otherwise.
“It makes me feel empathy for them. You grow to understand what they lived through.”
Anything is possible
“The ideas come in different ways every time,” said Finkbeiner. “It’s the most exciting part.”
The All-American, Finbeiner’s latest release, was inspired by two separate books that she read simultaneously.
“One was about [the author’s] father being accused of being a Communist, and the other was about women playing baseball,” said Finkbeiner. “Then I realized that the timelines met up between those two historical events.
“What’s less American than being accused of being a Communist, and what’s more American than baseball? What would happen if I put those two together?”
Written over two years, The All-American is a coming-of-age novel about two sisters in the 1950s. Finkbeiner’s relatable characters create a moving novel that inspires readers to dream big and believe anything is possible.
“I’ve been the recipient twice, which feels like getting struck by lightning twice – in a good way,” said Finkbeiner. “I think that one is so important to me because I love being a Michigander.”
That the recognition came from the Library of Michigan, and knowing she is part of the literary legacy of Michigan, is also meaningful to Finkbeiner.
“The library, throughout my life, it’s been one of those constant presences,” Finkbeiner said. “Sometimes during difficult times in childhood, I would go to the library and grab some books. Being honored by the library that made me who I am, it’s encouragement to keep going.”
Messages & Misconceptions
The misconception of writers not having contact with people is damaging, said Finkbeiner.
“I’m a noisy introvert,” said Finkbeiner. “I love public speaking. My favorite speaking events are at libraries because you get to meet readers. We really need to know who our readers are, because they are who we’re serving.”
Author Susie Finkbeiner on WKTV Journal Soundbites (Courtesy, WKTV)
“My novels aren’t just happy and fluffy,” Finkbeiner continued. “Things happen to the people in them. But through it, I always want the reader to know there is hope, that we are not left to despair. We all suffer, we all struggle, but there’s hope in the people around us, in faith, in the way that we can overcome.”
Any messages in Finkbeiner’s novels come organically, and tend to surprise her.
“That’s the beauty of writing and telling stories. Once it’s out there, it’s not mine anymore. It’s the reader’s. That is another reason why I like to meet readers; they always have insights that I would not have thought of.”
Words of wisdom
“There is a lot of rejection,” Finkbeiner said in advice to other writers. “When those rejections come, don’t quit. Sometimes it means it’s provoking them in a way that makes them uncomfortable. That can be good, because they will think about it later.”
Finkbeiner also gives writers permission to not write every day.
Giving your mind rest is necessary for creativity (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“You’ve got to let your mind rest,” said Finkbeiner. “You’ve got to let it wander. You’ve got to take in other art. Writing every day is not good for us. It’s too much hustle, and I don’t think art comes out of hustle.”
No guilt here!
“To readers, I would say that there is no guilty pleasure in reading,” said Finkbeiner. “Don’t let anyone judge you for it. If you like to read many things, go ahead. That’s what the library is there for. And if you don’t like a book, stop reading it.”
Next up: Joy of writing
Finkbeiner is busy writing a novel that is not currently under contract.
“I don’t have a deadline, so I feel a kind of freedom and space to breathe a little bit,” said Finkbeiner, adding that she is simply enjoying the process of writing right now.
Learn more about Susie Finkbeiner and her novels by clicking here.
Kent District Library (KDL) is inviting the community to share in a week-long celebration honoring MLK and the Civil Rights Movement.
Honoring the Life and Legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.: A Weeklong Celebration will take place Jan. 15-19 at local KDL branches. Programs for all ages will feature powerful reflections and action that supported the legacy of MLK.
“We chose to do the week-long celebration because [we] wanted it to be a variety of programs that patrons could enjoy,” said KDL Volunteer Event Coordinator Debra Schultz. “We didn’t want to just tie it into one day.”
Selma: heart-wrenching and eye-opening
As part of the celebration, the Wyoming Branch will host a special viewing of the movie Selma on Wednesday, Jan. 17 from 5:30-7:45 p.m.
(Courtesy, KDL)
“We wanted something that would touch a whole family and be an educational piece – but also an entertaining piece – and so we chose the movieSelma,” said Schultz. “It’s a great movie about representation of the need to understand each other, and to find equality in what we do.”
Taking place in Selma, AL, the movie speaks to the fight that Martin Luther King and his followers went through while striving to be treated equally.
“[King] was really looking for voting rights back in the 60s when this took place,” said Schultz. “African American people just wanted the right to vote…and they did it in a peaceful march.
(Courtesy, KDL)
“But even though their intentions were peaceful, there was still violence because the governor of the town did not want them to come to his town.”
Many people who supported the rights of African Americans to vote traveled to Selma from across the United States to march with MLK.
“They wanted to be there to say, ‘We stand with you.’” said Schultz. “It’s powerful because I don’t think we realize [that] the ordinary person didn’t know what was going on. A lot of them did not realize that African Americans didn’t have the right to vote, so this was an eye-opener for them.
“It was also dangerous for them because the people they were fighting against were also fighting against anyone who agreed with [MLK]. Some white people that went down for the march did end up getting harassed and violated.”
Schultz continued, “This movie is very moving and dramatic, heart-wrenching, and an eye-opener.”
Original artwork available for viewing
“Road Towards Equality” painting by Paul Collins (Courtesy, KDL)
KDL has also procured the loan of an original piece of art from a local Grand Rapids artist for the MLK celebration.
Artist Paul Collins has agreed to have his original painting titled “Road Towards Equality” hanging at several of the branches to honor MLK. It will remain on exhibit through February in honor of Black History Month.
“The reason that [Collins] chose to have it displayed in the library is because he thinks the library atmosphere is the right type of place to have this picture,” said Schultz. “Everyone has the ability to go in and see it because we are open to all, and it’s free to walk into a library.
“He likes the idea that anyone who walks in will have that opportunity to see it – and hopefully ask questions and learn from it. Learn what our heritage is, learn what our freedom is, learn about the men and the women that made changes to help our freedom.”
(Courtesy, KDL)
“Road Towards Equality” can be seen at the Kentwood branch for the first two in January. Alongside the painting will be a postcard with a description of the artwork that patrons will be able to take home with them.
From Kentwood, the painting will be on exhibit at the KDL Caledonia Branch from Jan. 29 – Feb. 2. The Walker location will display the piece the following week, followed by a week at the Sand Lake location, and then at the Rockford branch for the last week in February.
MLK celebration events
Though usually closed on Martin Luther King Day, KDL decided to stay open on Jan. 15 in order to provide a wider impact with carefully curated events.
“We wanted to make sure that there were eventful and educational programs going on that would tie into Martin Luther King and his legacy,” said Schultz. “We worked with Darius Quinn from Quinn Consulting to come up with a good schedule of events that would touch on the heart of what Martin Luther King stood for, and why it’s important that we still carry that on today.”
Other MLK events include a presentation by Randal Jelks, author of Letters to Martin, Jan. 15; a presentation by author, podcaster and retired Calvin professor Dr. Michelle Lloyd-Paige, Jan. 16; “Fear Must Not Be Our Future” presentation by Pastor Joe Jones, Jan. 18; and a Letters to Martin book discussion Jan. 19.
Each KDL branch will have a display of passive craft projects for children and families. The crafts include a silhouette of MLK that can be decorated with paint, markers, crayons. Various MLK quotes that had an impact on society will be available to cut out and adhere to the silhouette.
A small booklet will also be available for children at certain KDL locations. The booklet focuses on who MLK was, why his speech of “I have a dream” is important, and how children can live that out today.
A selection of books that represent Martin Luther King, his beliefs and what he was fighting for at that time, as well as books with similar messages relevant to current times will be available at all KDL branches for visitors to read and enjoy.
Our mission
“Our mission is Ideas, Information, and Excitement,” said Schultz about KDL, “and I feel like we have the ability to help people become more aware of our history and what we can do to become more united as a nation.”
*KDL thanks Darius Quinn for his extensive work and help on the MLK celebration, as well as Kendra McNeil, owner of bookstore We Are Lit, who provided copies of Letters to Martin for the library locations.
Kent District Library (KDL) is encouraging adults to get “On the Same Page” with reading. KDL is introducing a new initiative to bring people together around one book, Tom Lake by Ann Patchett.
“At KDL, we love reading and we love people, and On the Same Page will bring two of our favorite things together,” said Hennie Vaandrager, Programming and Outreach Manager at KDL. “Many people feel lonely, and this program is designed to provide connection and enjoyment.”
On the Same Page will include numerous events around Kent County. There will be book discussions, programs featuring themes in the book, and a Meet the Author event at 6:30 PM on Wednesday, April 24 at the Covenant Fine Arts Center at Calvin University.
Free registration for the Author Event will be required and will open on March 15. To sign up for updates and reminders, visit kdl.org/samepage.
Compelling storytelling and rich characters
Ann Patchett is a celebrated American author. Known for her compelling storytelling and rich character development, Patchett has received critical acclaim for novels such as Bel Canto and Commonwealth. With numerous literary awards and a reputation for thought-provoking narratives, she has made a significant impact on contemporary fiction.
Tom Lake has been described as both “quiet and reassuring” (New York Times) and “poignant and reflective” (Kirkus Reviews). It is a beautiful and moving novel about family, love and growing up that takes place on a cherry farm in Traverse City, MI during 2020.
How you can read Tom Lake
Because Tom Lake is now the book that everyone is reading, KDL has purchased many copies to keep the hold times as short as possible.
KDL has 670 regular print copies, 50 large print, 76 eBooks and 61 audiobooks in its collection. Tom Lake and Now is Not the Time to Panic are also available through KDL’s Talking Book and Braille Center in both audio and Braille formats.
On the Same Page participants should also sign up for KDL’s Let It Snow Winter Reading Club, which runs from Dec. 1 – Feb. 29.
(Courtesy, KDL)
Adults and teens (grades 6 and up) who read six books in various categories will receive a collectible mug. One of the categories is “Ann Patchett Title.” Those who read an additional four books will be entered to win a Kindle Scribe. Learn more at kdl.org/snow.
On the Same Page is offered in partnership with Calvin University’s January Series. To learn more, visit kdl.org/samepage.
Released in September 2023, 100 Things is an ode to the town Bareman fell in love with 20 years ago when she moved to Holland, Michigan.
A native of the Wyoming-Kentwood area, Bareman had only been to Holland once during her childhood – while on a school field trip to see the De Klomp Wooden Shoe & Delftware Factory.
“That was my sole experience with Holland,” says Bareman. Many years later, Bareman met her husband, got married and moved to Holland. “In the short time after moving to Holland, I just fell in love.”
The artsy, close-knit community calls to Bareman. Being a college town, Holland also offers a variety of events throughout the year.
“We have a lot of really cool events and tons of parks,” says Bareman. “It’s just a beautiful town, and right on the lakeshore.”
How Hip Grandma with a Camera was born
Bareman loves to travel and make friends at every stop (Courtesy, Veronica Bareman)
Bareman’s love of photography founded Veronicajune Photography. Over the years, she became known as “the girl with the camera.”
“Whenever I would show up I would have the camera, so people would laugh about that,” says Bareman.
Five years ago, Bareman began blogging about photography – and welcomed her first grandchild into the world.
“People started laughing and saying, ‘Oh, you’re the grandma with a camera,’” says Bareman. “Then I had a friend who took one look at me and said, ‘You can’t be the grandma with the camera. You’ve got pink hair, you’ve got to be hipper than that. You’re a Hip Grandma with a Camera.’”
Between the pink hair and Bareman’s energy level, Hip Grandma with a Camera stuck.
A life shift: becoming a travel blogger
The photography blog led to traveling as Bareman’s five children grew up and moved out of the house.
“Life has a way of just kind of morphing here and there,” Bareman says. “All of a sudden, I find myself in this travel space where I’m traveling.”
And wherever Bareman travels, her camera goes as well.
People often miss what is right in front of them in their own communities, says Bareman (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Invited into communities across the country, Bareman visits destinations and then posts on social media about what the communities have to offer.
At every travel destination, Bareman chats with hotel employees and waitstaff at local establishments. They always ask why she is in their town, and Bareman replies that she travels to see what that town has to offer.
The travel blogger says the responses are overwhelmingly similar: We don’t have anything to see or do around here.
“No matter where I go, this is what people say,” says Bareman. “We’re all so busy thinking about where we should go next, and what plane we should get on.
“If you just look around, most communities have a ton of things to see and do.”
Bareman believes she was given a unique perspective on her own community because she moved to Holland as an adult. Instead of taking the town’s offerings for granted, she embraced each new opportunity to explore what was right in front of her.
“We just kind of take it for granted that ‘Someday we’ll go see that, but we’re planning something else right now,’” says Bareman. “It’s definitely a phenomenon. It happens everywhere, not just here in West Michigan. It happens all over the country.”
An ironic revelation
Then, almost two years ago, Bareman realized the irony attached to her travel blog.
“I’m writing about everything and I come home to the best town…why haven’t I written extensively about Holland?” Bareman asked herself.
Bareman realized she had never written about the place she loves most (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Bareman found the response from her previous travel destinations was the same response she found in Holland.
“People don’t know what’s within twenty minutes of their own back door,” Bareman says.
That revelation led the travel blogger to contact publishing company Reedy Press.
“They have a series of 100 Things books,” says Bareman. “I pitched the Holland, Michigan idea to them, and they were on board.”
100 Things to do in Holland, Michigan Before You Die has been well-received by people, Bareman says. Many local readers have told Bareman they had no idea certain attractions existed in their own backyard.
What came before and what’s next
(Courtesy Photo)
Bareman’s 100 Things is actually her second publication.
Twelve authors throughout the Midwest came together and compiled an informative book on Midwest state parks.
Titled Midwest State Park Adventures, the book covers all state parks in the Midwest states, with Bareman penning the Michigan chapter.
“Michigan has 108 state parks,” says Bareman. “I did a deep dive into those to figure out who has camping, trails and kayaking, then specifically wrote from firsthand experience.”
Bareman is looking at participating in another author compilation that will cover Midwest museums. She is also in conversation with Reedy Press about writing a bigger, more Michigan-centric book.
Never stop exploring
“Life goes on past 50, and it can be the most exciting time of your life,” says Bareman. “I’m in my 50s now, and life has taken off in my 50s in a bigger way than through all of the years prior.”
Bareman is loving her Hip Grandma Life and continues to carry her camera everywhere she goes. Her days consist of traveling, writing, photography, and speaking engagements.
Bareman says we should never stop learning and exploring (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
And, most importantly, being a grandma to her two grandchildren while looking forward to welcoming more into the Hip Grandma fold.
Bareman encourages those around her to never stop exploring, no matter their age.
“Don’t forget to explore your own backyard,” says Bareman. “We have the gift of a lifetime of experience and look through a whole different lens than we would have when we were 25 and trying to figure life out.
“Now we’ve kind of got the gift of having it figured out. We never stopped learning, and we never have it completely figured out, but certainly those years of experience are a huge gift when you’re at this point in life.”
Inspiration to get you started
Adventures of the pink-haired, high-energy Hip Grandma with a Camera can be found on her website, Hip Grandma Life.
WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed went behind the scenes with author Chavonne Mateen and her debut novel, Shaylah Marston and the Rogue Roots, on WKTV Soundbites (Courtesy, WKTV)
Set in an urban magical realm, Mateen’s middle grade novel contains everything the author loves about the fantasy genre – and about life.
“I have always been a huge fan of fantasy fiction,” said Mateen, adding that the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling and the Children of Blood and Bone series by Tomi Adeyemi are among her favorite reads.
When not writing, Mateen fills her time as an HR Technologist for HRIS Streamline Consulting, is an Associate Integration Consultant for iCIMS, and is a self-professed serial entrepreneur.
Already living a life busy with the HR works she loves, this reporter couldn’t resist asking Mateen about the driving force behind her desire to pen a novel.
Living life to the fullest
“People go on journeys in life,” said Mateen. “One day I was writing down things I wanted to accomplish. Starting a business was one, finishing school was another, and writing a rap.
“The next one was to write a book. That’s how this was born.”
Mateen talked with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed about what lies at the heart of her debut novel (Courtesy, WKTV)
Not only did Mateen decide to write a book, she decided to create something groundbreaking that was also relatable.
Mateen wanted to write what she deemed was missing in the fantasy genre – a series featuring a beautiful, strong and present family that sticks together.
“I decided that I wanted to write something that I could relate to,” said Mateen. “This is more in an urban setting, and it’s characters that I can relate to.”
Shaylah’s journey is one of self-discovery.
Suddenly inundated with nightly visions of her deceased grandfather, Shaylah begins asking her mother some hard questions. As long-kept family secrets are revealed, the young teen realizes that she also holds magical powers and abilities.
Mateen chats about Shaylah Marston merchandise and fan art (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“When they begin telling her these secrets, that’s when the story begins to unfold and the magic occurs,” said Mateen.
The young heroine embarks on a mission with her family and friends, intent on saving a distant world and restoring her family’s name.
With a diverse cast of characters and a relatable and inspiring protagonist, Shaylah Marston and the Rogue Roots weaves powerful themes of friendship, courage and self-discovery throughout its pages.
Deemed “an exhilarating coming-of-age extravaganza” and “unapologetic fantasy fiction at its finest” by beta readers, Mateen’s novel will transport readers to a world brimming with adventure.
Interested readers can visit Mateen’s website to pre-order a copy of the novel, sign up for notifications regarding Shaylah Marston events and news, and purchase Shaylah Marston merchandise.
But Mateen isn’t stopping there.
Big screen goals
Bringing Shaylah Marston to the big screen as a Netflix series is a goal Mateen is already working to set in motion.
“That’s the ultimate goal, to bring it to the big screen, bring it to life, and bring the awareness to Grand Rapids that we do have offerings and more creatives in this space,” said Mateen.
Expanding worlds, chasing dreams
Mateen is currently working on the second Shaylah Marston novel (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Mateen plans to expand Shaylah Marston’s world through writing, though she admits that the writing process is not always easy.
“I’ve experienced roadblocks, setbacks, tumbles and stumbles,” said Mateen.
But she doesn’t let that stop her, and she encourages others to push through those difficulties as well.
“Just continue to write,” said Mateen. “Pick up that pen. If you don’t have a pen, pick up your phone. Jot those ideas down. You can always revisit and expand on it, but you have to start somewhere and keep at it because it’s a work in progress.
“It’s not going to always be perfect. But continue pressing forward.”
To learn more about Shaylah Marston and the Rogue Roots, visit the Shaylah Marston website and Facebook page.
KDL wins national award, plans to reinvest the prize money into the community (Courtesy Photo)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
The Jerry Kline Community Impact Award recognizes libraries as a vital community asset (Courtesy, KDL)
The Kent District Library Board of Trustees recently approved a plan to reinvest $250,000 in prize money into the community. The money will be used to support library expansion projects and to establish a scholarship fund.
As the recipient of the fifth annual Jerry Kline Community Impact Award, KDL receives the one-time prize as the 2023 winner of this national award.
Developed as a partnership between the Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation and Library Journal, this award recognizes the powerful synergy that results when a library works closely with both its local government and its community.
Funding Details
Four communities in the KDL service area currently have a library expansion project underway — the cities of Rockford and Walker and townships of Grattan and Tyrone. Thanks to this one-time prize for excellence, KDL is able to pledge $50,000 to support each of these projects.
KDL is also establishing a scholarship fund for KDL patrons who are a pursuing a college degree with plans to positively impact their community. The fund will be established with $50,000 from the Jerry Kline prize, interest earned from KDL’s Community Foundation Fund through the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, and private donations.
Scholarship applications will be announced and accepted late in 2024.
Community Impact
“The whole focus of the Jerry Kline Award is community impact, so it only seems fitting we use these funds to have a positive effect on the communities that we serve and love,” KDL Executive Director Lance Werner said. “This is an exciting opportunity to live out our mission of furthering all people thanks to the financial prize that comes with this recognition.
“This gives us a unique opportunity to invest in the physical growth of branches in our community and in personal growth for exceptional patrons. We are so pleased to give back to Kent County, whose residents so thoughtfully support our operations.”
People who would like to donate to the building projects can do so by contacting the government offices for Grattan Township, city of Rockford, Tyrone Township or city of Walker. For those who would like to donate to the KDL Impact Scholarship fund, visit kdl.org/donate.
Impact Award Highlights
(Courtesy, KDL)
The Jerry Kline Community Impact Award was created in 2019 to distinguish the public library as a vital community asset.
KDL was recognized for building relationships with local officials based on a foundation of trust and credibility.
All U.S. public libraries were eligible to apply for the prize whether in a single building in a small town or a multi-branch system serving an entire region.
Nominations were evaluated based the library’s impact on the community in areas such as engagement, inclusion, leadership development, sustainable thinking and inventiveness.
According to preliminary results, nearly 100,000 voters submitted ballots in the special election, supporting the ballot measure 77% to 23%. Voters approved the new, lower rate of 1.1 mills, which reflects a reduction of 10.9% off KDL’s current millage rate of 1.2355 mills.
“My team and I want to thank all those who came out to show their support for KDL,” said KDL Executive Director Lance Werner. “The community already shows how much it values the library every day, with record-setting attendance at programs and total circulation of materials. We’re thrilled to see validation of this in the approval by voters.
“This millage will simultaneously save taxpayers money while securing our future and allowing us to continue serving our wonderful community.”
How taxpayers will save
The KDL board approved Jan. 1, 2024 as the start date, even though the current millage is not set to expire until Dec. 31, 2024. This will provide taxpayers with immediate savings.
Taxpayers will see immediate savings (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The millage will generate $26.6 million in its first year, covering the expense of physical and digital collections, employees, programs and events, tech tutoring and other library services, rent and other expenses.
With the new lower rate, taxpayers will save $3.1 million annually or $46.5 million over its life, with the average homeowner paying $145.75 annually for access to library services – or $2.80 per week.
About KDL services
The award-winning library system serves residents in 27 municipalities through 20 branches, an Express Library, a bookmobile, its main service center, 5,000-plus annual in-person programs and a host of patron-focused services.
KDL’s collection is extensive, with more than 700,000 physical items and 15.6 million digital items. Known for its family-friendly programs, KDL offers more than 5,600 programs and outreach events each year.
KDL has offered the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program since 2015 (Courtesy, KDL)
By Kent District Library
deborah@wktv.org
Kent District Library (KDL) has offered the program 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten since 2015. This year, KDL is pleased provide a new and improved version with the same great outcomes.
The updated program introduces an online tracking option, includes a book with early literacy activities and features Michigan woodland animals.
Reading to children helps them learn early literacy skills (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
All children, infant to kindergarten, are encouraged to participate in this program designed to prepare kids for school. For every 100 books read, kids will earn an animal sticker for their tracking poster. When you reach 1,000 books, your child will be awarded a certificate of achievement and their very own book bag!
Repeating books, listening to audio books, paging through a board book, books read at storytime and reading books in any language all count toward the goal.
“Last year, we committed to creating new inspiration for this popular reading program to ensure that it would remain a fun, relevant and engaging way to encourage early literacy for this generation,” said Dawn Heerspink, Branch Librarian at the Byron Township Branch.
Completing the program is simple, Heerspink continued. “Start or continue reading at least one book a day with the child in your life and see how one book multiplies into many books, all helping that child learn the early literacy skills they need to grow into a reader who enjoys books.”
Stop in to any KDL branch to pick up a tracking and activity booklet for your child that includes a progress poster. Track your reading using the book, online at kdl.beanstack.org, or on the Beanstack app.
Learn more about 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten at kdl.org/1KB4K.
Throughout her life, Becci Schumaker found solace in poetry (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
By Deborah Reed
deborah@wktv.org
Grand Rapids resident and poet Becci Schumaker has always been drawn to words and the power within them – so she made words her refuge during difficult times.
Though she classifies herself as an introvert and a loner, Schumaker’s soft voice and kind countenance are the hallmark of a woman who navigated hardships and reached her dreams despite opposition.
Writing poetry was one of those dreams.
Falling in love with words
Becci Schumaker looks through her collection of poems (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“I love working with words,” said Schumaker. “I think words are fascinating. Words can be serene but they can be powerful, they can be enigmatic. It just opens up a whole new world.”
Writing poetry has been part of Schumaker’s world since she was 12 years old.
Coming from an emotionally and physically abusive family background, Schumaker immersed herself in reading and writing to escape the real world.
“It was a means of escape for me,” Schumaker said as she gently touched a binder containing several pages of her written works. “That was my safe place.”
Overcoming struggles and hardship
Words did not come easily for Schumaker at first.
In first grade, a teacher noticed Schumaker struggled with reading and provided extra instruction. By third grade Schumaker was reading college-level works.
“I haven’t stopped reading since,” said Schumaker with a smile.
Young Schumacher was immediately drawn to the genre of poetry, the words and prose a direct contrast to her hostile home environment.
Becci Schumaker’s poems have been published in several compilation poetry books (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Schumaker said she is grateful for the stable presence of an aunt and uncle with whom she spent summers while growing up.
“If it wasn’t for me having that Christian background through them, and getting my morals and values of what a good person is supposed to be, I don’t know if I would have even done this,” said Schumaker, touching the stack of poetry books in front of her.
Schumaker later took an evening American Literature class, writing a short story that her teacher urged her to publish.
However, Schumaker had to put her writing on hold as she focused on raising her four children, working two jobs for several years to support her family.
Reigniting the flame
Meeting her husband Don reignited Schumaker’s creative spirit, and she once again picked up her pen and put it to paper.
“I’ve actually woken my husband up in the middle of the night, jumping out of bed to grab pencil and paper and start writing,” said Schumaker with a grin.
“I will get a thought and will have to write,” Schumaker continued. “Nine times out of ten, the result is a poem.”
When she noticed an ad about submitting original poems to a poetry contest, Schumaker thought she would give it a try. “I Love You Lord” became Schumaker’s first published work of poetry, printed in 1997 under the name Becci Campbell. The poem was included in a Poetry Guild compilation titled By the Light of the Moon.
Everything around Schumaker inspires her writing.
At church, the pastor’s words sparked Schumaker’s imagination and she completed a poem within minutes titled “The Trinity,” now published in Forever Spoken.
Challenged by her husband to write a poem about something as ordinary as a card game, Schumaker immediately put pen to paper. The subsequent poem, “Cards,” can be found in the poetry book Memories of Tomorrow.
With several published works under her belt – the most recent being Schumaker’s poem titled “Carpet of White” in 2022 – the local poet continues to write.
Submission of her poem “The Lonely Man” is next for Schumaker’s publication goals. The poem stems from personal experience of her husband’s struggle with rehab and the beginnings of dementia.
A legacy of words
Becci Schumaker reads one of her poems aloud (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
When asked how many poems she has written over her lifetime, Schumaker responded, “Oh gosh, probably hundreds and hundreds.”
When asked if she ever threw one of her written works away, Schumaker quickly replied, “I keep them all. Even if I don’t think it’s good, I’ll fold it up and tuck it away somewhere. Maybe someday I’ll go back to it, and reread it, and write it a different way.”
Though she loves poems, Schumaker said her main reading genre is science fiction, and her favorite movies are “ones that put you on the edge of your seat.”
Schumaker freely acknowledges the incongruity between the lighter, lyrical prose of her written works and the darker genres of her favorite movies.
“Even though I like those kinds of movies, [poetry] is my stress relief, my go-to outlet that brings me into the light,” said Schumaker, looking at the binder of poetry. “This is my sanity.”
A powerful responsibility
The power that words contain is always at the forefront of Schumaker’s mind, especially words wielded with harmful intent.
“People don’t realize words really do hurt,” said Schumaker, admitting that, at 71 years old, she still struggles with hurtful things spoken to her as a child. “The scars are there forever.”
“I have had to survive on my own since I was sixteen,” Schumaker continued. “You learn about life. That’s what a lot of this writing is.”
The poet regularly encourages people to carry a notebook and write down any idea that comes to them.
“You never know what’s going to come of it,” said Schumaker, gesturing toward her own poems laid out before her.
Staying active and looking ahead
Along with writing, Schumaker stays active by participating in mission trips with her church and volunteering for WKTV Community Media.
“I’ve got to be doing something, and this gave me an outlet,” said Schumaker about WKTV, adding that she fell in love with the camera work at the station.
When asked what is next for the active poet, Schumaker shrugged. “From here, we’ll see what life brings,” she said with a smile.
Award-winning Kent District Library (KDL) will ask Kent County voters to consider a millage renewal at a reduced rate on Nov. 7.
If approved, the lower millage rate of 1.1 mills will fund KDL’s operations for 15 years, and taxpayers will see immediate savings as the KDL Board has committed to lowering the millage rate effective Jan. 1, 2024, even though the current millage doesn’t expire until Dec. 31, 2024.
“We recognized that if we were to stay with a straight renewal, we would end up with income we don’t need,” said KDL Executive Director Lance Werner. “We feel that we should only ask for money that we need and that we can use, and let the public keep more of their own money.”
The ability to offer a lower millage is partly due to a growing community where new taxable real estate has produced more revenue.
“As good stewards of taxpayer dollars, we want to lock in savings for residents now,” said KDL Board Chair Andy Erlewein.
(Courtesy, Kent District Library)
KDL serves residents in 27 municipalities through 20 branches with its extensive collection of more than 700,000 physical items, 15.6 digital items, a bookmobile, its main service center, 5,000-plus annual in-person programs, and a host of patron-focused services from in-branch printer/Wi-Fi access and loanable mobile hotspots, to early literacy initiatives and a large assortment of talking books and Braille resources.
These resources ensure the average KDL patron receives over $1,300 worth of service each year.
“The return on investment that we provide the public is unsurpassed,” said Werner.
Approximately 90% of KDL’s operating funds come from the millage with the remaining 10% funded through a series of Friends of the Library groups, dedicated volunteers who support their branches through book sales, and other fundraising activities.
In 2022, KDL saw an increase of more than 61% in program and outreach attendance, a 6% rise in total circulation, and a 26% rise in computer and Wi-Fi usage.
Werner attributes the increase in community use of KDL resources to dedicated staff and quality programming and outreach.
“One of the things we practice here is a constant environmental scan and a refusal to become complacent,” said Werner. “We are proud to represent everyone in the county…we are committed to helping them all. That is the spirit of what we do.”
Werner would like to remind residents that Summer Wonder is still in full swing.
“It’s not too late to sign up!” said Werner, adding that nothing makes KDL staff happier than seeing community members come in and utilize their services.
“At the end of the day, libraries are not about books, libraries are about people and transforming lives,” said Werner. “We are really excited to deliver [the millage] to Kent County residents and continue our tradition of excellence.”
Author K.D. Norris with novel “The View from Gleninagh North” at Schuler Books. (Courtesy, Ken Norris)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
After a vacation trip to Ireland in the early 2000s, and while working at WKTV Community Media and Mlive, local writer K.D. Norris wrote and recently published his debut fiction novel, “The View from Gleninagh North,” through Schuler Books Chapbook Press.
The novel is a personal look at Ireland — its landscape, people and recent history — wrapped around a human story of personal exploration and romance.
“I have described it as ‘The Bridges of Madison County’ meets ‘Bicycle Diaries.’ At its heart it is a romance novel, but there is a fair amount of travelogue as well,” Norris said. “Much of it was written in a coffee shop in Cedar Springs, and later at a local Starbucks before work.”
“The View from Gleninagh North” is available at Schuler Books Grand Rapids at 2660 28th Street SE, schulerbooks.com, and Amazon.
An outsider’s view
The View from Gleninagh North by K.D. Norris. (Courtesy, Ken Norris)
The novel’s narrator is Matthew Maybourn — “Ah, Matty, a good Irish name, that!” — a lifelong writer and recent widower who has left his middle-class, mid-life comfort zone. As an unplanned favor to a Hollywood friend and filmmaker, he is immersed in modern Ireland’s cultural landscape to write the impossible book: a sequel to “The Quiet Man.”
An outsider in a small, rural village on Galway Bay, Matty explores his new world and other people’s life stories in search of not only a novel idea, but possibly a new meaning to his own life. All with a view from Gleninagh North.
“There is a fair amount of history and culture in the book as well, mostly true, as I could not write about my Irish characters without giving a glimpse of why I think they are who they are,” Norris said.
“And I have to thank members of my local writers group and the team at Schuler Books Chapbook Press for their support, advice and work in helping me get this book into print and available to readers,” Norris said.
About the author
K.D. Norris lives in Cedar Springs with wife TJ. He has published short stories in several regional anthologies, including “An Affair of the Mind,” published in 2021 by the Grand Rapids Region Writers Group (GRRWG) of which he is a member. He also had an essay selected for publication in “The Mailer Review” national publication, and has written numerous award-winning journalistic stories over his 30-plus year career in journalism and mass media.
For more on his professional and literary background, visit kdnorris.com.
KDL Kelloggsville Branch Library Cameron Holmes hopes area residents will stop by to check out the branch during its Birthday Bash on Aug. 2. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor
This Aug. 2, Kent District Library hopes area residents will swing by to check out the books and materials at its KDL Kelloggsville branch as the branch marks its fifth anniversary.
Located in the Kelloggsville High School, 4787 Division Ave. S., the branch was opened in 2018 with a state-of-the-art media center at the high school was transformed into a community library. KDL manages the two-story facility, which is open to the community members after school hours and during the summer.
Even through the facility has been open for five years, there are still people in the community who are not aware of it, said KDL Kelloggsville Branch Librarian Cameron Holmes.
The KDL Kelloggsville branch’s entrance is located on the north side of the Kelloggsville High School. (Courtesy, KDL)
“The event is designed to provide a service to the community but also to help create awareness about the facility and that it is open to the public,” Holmes said, adding that the library entrance is tucked into the north side of the school and is not easily visible from the road.
The Birthday Bash, which starts at 1 p.m., will be outside, which Holmes said he hopes will attract people to come in and check out the event. The event will include a foam party, take and make crafts for adults, goodie bags for children, tours of the branch and, of course, ice cream. The KDL Bookmobile also will be there.
The branch is full service, providing an arrange of materials for children to adults along with the Beyond Books program and other KDL services.
For the summer, the KDL Kelloggsville branch is open 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.Mondays and Wednesdays and noon-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. During the school year, the branch is open from 3-6:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday.
For more about the KDL Kelloggsville branch or KDL offerings, visit kdl.org.
Joseph Olexa, circa 1941 (Courtesy, GVSU Veterans History Project)
Grand Valley State University Professor James Smither will be the first to admit that you never know where a veterans’ interview will lead you.
Such was the case when Smither, who heads up the GVSU Veterans History Project, interviewed World War II veteran David Zylstra, who mentioned that he had a manuscript of a memoir composed in the 1970s by his second wife’s late brother-in-law from her first marriage. Zylstra have been given the manuscript because he was the family member interested in history.
Dr. James R. Smither will talk about his book Wednesday, May 17, at 2 p.m. at Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW.
When Smither looked through the large pile of papers stacked on Zylstra’s dining room table, “I realized right away that it should be archived and could probably be edited for publication.”
Smither got in touch with Olexa’s two sons still living in the Grand Rapids area, and they agreed to donate the manuscript and letters Olexa had written home during the war to GVSU and the Veterans History Project.
Smither took a sabbatical to edit the memoir and get it ready for publication.
The Challenge of Fact-Checking
“The real challenge to this was the fact-checking,” said Smither. “(Olexa) wrote the memoir largely from memory. I had to follow the story and check it against both published histories of the campaigns he was in, as well as military records for the unit he served in.”
Grand Valley State University Professor James Smither, head of the GVSU Veterans History Project (Courtesy, GVSU Veterans History Project)
Matching dates and places where the unit traveled and particular events Olexa mentioned in the memoir took hours of research.
“In some cases, his memory was faulty,” Smither said. “He was remembering the incidents pretty well but didn’t always have them in the right times and places. So I had to sort that out.”
Another challenge was the pseudonyms Olexa used for a lot of his characters. Ordinary combat soldiers didn’t always know each soldier’s name, often only knowing them by their nicknames.
“In (Olexa’s) case, he was going further than that. He was giving them nicknames especially if he didn’t like them,” said Smither with a laugh.
One of the most memorable nicknames was given to one of Olexa’s company commanders who he referred to as “Captain Jitters.” Smither had to find the real name of “Captain Jitters,” and the point Jitters was removed and sent to a psychiatric hospital as mentioned in the memoir.
A Vivid Account of Enlisted Life
Smither said he was impressed by Olexa’s writing style and ease of storytelling. “(The memoir) gives you a much more detailed and vivid account of what it was like to be a combat soldier than you get from most memoirs written by enlisted men,” Smither said. “Usually, it’s the officers that write the better memoirs because they are better educated and have a better idea of what was going on.”
Part of the charm of Olexa’s account of WWII was that he enlisted before the war had even begun.
“Olexa enlisted before the war started and got into the fighting as early as anybody did, and the Americans did in the European theater,” Smither said.
In 1942, Olexa was part of the invasion of North Africa—a portion of the war where there are not many firsthand accounts at all, and none from Olexa’s regiment of several thousand men.
Some Interesting Accounts
Smither said there are many incidents of Olexa’s unit that didn’t make it into history books because they were a “sideshow” for quite a while as a battalion off on their own, conducting small patrols in the southern end of the front in Tunisia.
Soldiers of L Company in Aachen, Germany. (Courtesy, GVSU History Project)
During the invasion of Sicily in 1943, Olexa was part of a small group of men who were trained to swim onto shore and flash signals to guide the landing craft in. “I had never seen anything about that,” said Smither. “I couldn’t find anything in the records indicating an army personnel ever did this. When I was burrowing around in the unit records, sure enough, I found a report on the activities of the unit he was in, and there he is, listed on the unit roster.”
The more Smither researched, the more he found that “a lot of the crazier stories turned out to be true.”
One such story involved chasing the girlfriends of soldiers out of the woods near the base in England where Olexa spent the last five months of the European war training replacement combat soldiers. The women would camp in the woods near the base and sneak in at night, or the men would sneak into the woods to spend time with them. Olexa had to organize a group of military police and make a sweep through the woods, chasing the women out.
Looking to Add a Website for the Book
University of North Texas Press wanted Smither to focus on the combat and front-line experiences of Olexa’s tenure in the war, forcing him to leave out some of the more eccentric stories.
“The original manuscript was simply too long to go into a print edition,” said Smither. Sections where Olexa is training or in the rear, various encounters with French soldiers in North Africa, and civilians he encountered away from the front were all areas Smither had to cut back.
However, the Press is allowing Smither to set up a website where he will post deleted material and any other supplemental items that he deems relevant. The plan is to include those sections of the text with indications of where they fit into the larger story in terms of pages of the book. Smither also plans to post some of the letters and interviews that he has done with veterans in some of the same places or with similar experiences as Olexa.
Once published, this supplemental website will be accessible from the Grand Valley History Department website via a link on GVSU’s Veterans History Project, which also gives access to other veteran interviews as well.
After the book is in print for three years, the Press plans to publish an ebook version that will have Olexa’s entire memoir so readers can find the whole story in one place.
Giving back to our veterans
Smither has worked at GVSU as a historian since 1990 and has specifically worked with veterans for more than 20 years.
“I always had an interest in military history, and I was able to develop a course in it,” said Smither, whose time outside of the classroom has been spent largely on conducting veteran interviews for the Veterans History Project (VHP).
Even though he does not have a personal military background, Smither said, “As a historian, sometimes you study things that are very far from your own experiences to try to understand them. And military history is compelling because it puts people into very difficult and unusual circumstances, and they have to figure out what to do and how to handle it. I think there is something about that that captures people’s imaginations.”
Veterans History Project: More than Telling Stories
“It’s a way to give back to the people who serve,” Smither said. “Just by listening to them and taking them seriously, you are showing a certain respect for them.”
Smither believes his job is to help veterans tell their whole story, publishing the complete interviews on the VHP website instead of only releasing bits and pieces.
“It provides great raw material for future generations of historians, but it also does something for the veterans themselves,” Smither continued.
For many involved in conflict from Vietnam onward, Smither has found there is often a question of “Why were we there in the first place, and was it worth doing?” Recording their stories helps many veterans find clarity.
“What you see when you talk to (veterans) is (that) a lot of the experience for them is just with them and the people in their unit, and just trying to get by. They were not really as worried about the bigger picture of things,” Smither said. “Recording the stories helps validate the experience…and it helps them figure out what happened. Sometimes I interview a veteran and that’s the first time they actually tried to put their story together. Some of it starts to make sense a little bit better when they start to do that.”
Retired life
Olexa worked in a factory for a short time after retiring from the military but deemed it too noisy. The former infantryman was not squeamish about blood and became a meat cutter, with his last 10 years before retiring in 1981 serving as the meat manager at a Grand Rapids D&W supermarket.
“He was very much just a member of the community after that (military career),” said Smither.
Olexa married Agnes Van Der Weide July 23, 1945, and lived in West Michigan until Agnes’s death in 1993. Olexa passed away December 3, 2000.
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
From the Sookie Slackhouse series.From the Aurora Teagarden series. From the Midnight, Texas series
You might not know the name Charlaine Harris but you have probably ran across one of the several made for TV series that were based off her books.
NBC’s short-lived “Midnight, Texas,” based off Harris’ “Midnight, Texas” series, followed the mysterious people of Midnight, Texas, as psychic Manfred Bernardo is busy solving the mysteries.
Or how about Hallmark Movies and Mysteries’ “Aurora Teagarden Movies,” which are based on Harris’ Aurora Teagarden series. The story follows librarian Aurora Teagarden as she solves murders in her town of Lawrenceton, in the state of Washington.
Finally, there is HBO’s “True Blood,” which ran for five years from 2009-2014 and was based off of Harris’ Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampire Series. The mystery series features small-town waitress-turned-paranormal sleuth Sookie Stackhouse as she works with a variety of paranormal characters from vampires to werewolves in solving a series of murders.
Harris’ books are just some of the many you can find on the Kent District Library’s Books to Film selection for the KDL Let It Snow Adult Reading Club.
Adults and teens (11+) who participate in the Let It Snow and read a minimum of six books in different categories between Jan. 3 and March 31 will receive a collectible Let It Snow 2023 ceramic mug. Participants who finish an additional four titles will be entered into a Power Reader drawing to win an Amazon Kindle Scribe with stylus pen or other prizes.
“I’ll be honest, when someone suggested ‘The Silent Patient’ to me, I thought it sounded pretty routine and so I passed,” said WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma. “Then my daughter, a registered nurse, mentioned how her co-workers told her she needed to read the book.
“She got it. Read it in two days and then gave it to me. I couldn’t put it down and then, it was the twist that I never expected.”
“The Silent Patient,” by Alex Michaelides, is just one of many possible options under the KDL Let It Snow Mystery and Thriller book selections which also includes “Run Rose Run,” by James Patterson and Dolly Parton, “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn and Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None.”
Based on a Greek myth, “The Silent Patient” centers around the story of famous painter Alicia Berenson who has killed her husband and stops speaking and Theo, a therapist determined to unlock her secrets.
Adults and teens (11+) who participate in the Let It Snow and read a minimum of six books in different categories between Jan. 3 and March 31 will receive a collectible Let It Snow 2023 ceramic mug. Participants who finish an additional four titles will be entered into a Power Reader drawing to win an Amazon Kindle Scribe with stylus pen or other prizes.
Angeline Boulley’s debut novel, “Firekeeper’s Daughter,” skyrocketed to the top upon release earning several awards including a Printz Medal Winner, William C. Morris Award, American Indian Youth Literature Award Best Young Adult Honor, and was a Reese Witherspoon x Hllo Sunshine Book Club YA Pick.
Set in Sault Ste. Marie, the story follows Daunis Fontaine, a half-native, half-white young adult who witnesses her best friend’s murder by the hand of her friend’s boyfriend. She decides to protect her family and her culture by becoming involved an FBI investigation revolving around a new drug that mixes meth with Ojibwa herbs.
Boulley, who is enrolled member of the Sault St. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, was born in Sault Ste. Marie. She is a graduate of Central Michigan University and has worked in Indian education at the tribal, state and national levels including becoming the director fo the Office of Indian Education at the U.S. Department of Education.
Boulley’s book is just one of the many recommendations on the KDL Let It Snow Local Indie/Michigan Authors. Other books on the list are Jenison author Tobin T. Buhk’s “Cold Case Michigan,” a look at several unsolved Michigan murders, and Shona Buchana’s “Black Indian,” a memoir of being African American with American Indian roots and how her family dealt with not just society’s ostracization but the consequences of this dual inheritance.
Adults and teens (11+) who participate in the Let It Snow and read a minimum of six books in different categories between Jan. 3 and March 31 will receive a collectible Let It Snow 2023 ceramic mug. Participants who finish an additional four titles will be entered into a Power Reader drawing to win an Amazon Kindle Scribe with stylus pen or other prizes.
KDL is looking for local champions in literacy for its KDL Literacy Champion award.
Jeopardy! champion James Holzhauer openly admits that it was the children’s nonfiction section of his library that helped him bring home big winnings and, as a thank you, he donated some of those winnings to local libraries in his area.
Country singer and musician Dolly Parton has always believed that not being able to read was what kept her own father from accomplishing his goals in life and for that reason she started Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in East Tennessee.
Former First Lady Barbara Bush’s work as an educator carried over into her public life as she became an advocate for literacy which lead to the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy.
Holzhauer, Parton, and Bush have been recognized as literacy champions, a person who has gone above and beyond to improve literacy within their own community.
The Kent District Library hopes to recognize and an individual and organization who have gone above and behind to improve literacy in the Kent County area through its newly created KDL Literacy Champion Award.
“Literacy is the foundation of all learning for our children and throughout life,” said KDL Executive Director Lance Werner. “There are many people and organizations who have exceptional passion for literacy, creating a profound impact on life in our community. The KDL Literacy Champion Award shines a light on and celebrates them.”
The award will be given to one individual and one organization who does or has done something exceptional to promote literacy. To find those individuals and groups, KDL has opened public nominations through July 31. Nominations may be submitted online at kdl.org/literacychampion.
Nominees should have demonstrated leadership and exceptional achievement in advancing reading. Individuals can be teachers, tutors, school librarians, authors, and others. Organizations can be schools, non-profit services, for-profit businesses, and government entities.
Nominations will be reviewed by a panel from KDL and its Board of Trustees. Winners will be publicly announced and celebrated on Sept. 15 at the eighth annual Literary Libations Gala. Each winner will receive $1,000 in cash, a crystal trophy and two tickets to the KDL’s Literary Librations Gala.
Having sold two million Star Wars books for kids (Darth Vader and Son and Jedi Academy) and considered a pioneer of 21st-century graphic memoir, award-winning author and Grand Rapids native Jeffrey Brown is inviting readers to explore the intimate and timeless tales that first launched his career.
Arthur Jeffery Brown (Supplied)
Loved And Lost: A Relationship Trilogy, produced by Top Shelf Productions, is set to debut Tuesday, June 14. These three honest and adult-oriented memoirs, written 20 years ago and now compiled into one work, capture timeless insights into love, intimacy, and vulnerability that make them authentic and relatable to readers.
“(I wanted) to make work that expressed whatI was feeling,” Jeffrey Brown told WKTV in a recent interview. Creating works that related to everyday life was important to Brown. “I thought to myself: The complete opposite of something super-conceptual would be to write something about real life and be as brutally honest as I could possibly write.”
While attending the School of the Art Institute, Brown began doodling comics in his sketchbooks about everyday awkward moments. “There was something about making those that felt very full-filling,” Brown said. The author went on to say that those comics, when he showed them to friends and family, were what seemed to connect with people.
Brown began recording his memories of a recent long-distant relationship in a sketchbook, revealing the emotional frailty of young lovers in writing and art. That first book, Clumsy, struck a chord with readers and prompted Brown to create his second and third graphic memoirs, titled Unlikely and Any Easy Intimacy.
The response to his work, Brown revealed, was unexpected. “These things I was writing about were more universal than I realized,” said Brown. “It’s comforting to know that other people can read something and tell you, ‘Oh yeah, I’ve been there,’ and appreciate that you’ve been there too. It’s a two-way street of connecting with readers.”
Putting himself in a vulnerable position by divulging aspects of his personal life didn’t come easily but was worth it to Brown. “As an artist, I’m trusting people with myself, with my stories,” Brown said. “By and large, that trust is rewarded. I find that when someone opens up and is vulnerable, people’s instinct…is to be empathetic and return that vulnerability with their own vulnerability.”
Collected into one volume for the first time, Love And Lost: A Relationship Trilogy reminds readers of real life joy, heartbreak, and humor that marks every life.
Brown revealed that he is curious to see what readers think of the memoirs 20 years after they were written. “It’s interesting to look back. Obviously,the world is very different,” Brown said, “but hopefully there’s still something in there for people to find value in.”
Over the last 20 years, the author and artist has released numerous titles and won several awards, including the Ignatz Awardin 2003 in the category of Outstanding Mini-Comic for I Am Going To Be Small, and back-to-back Eisner Awardsin the category of Best Humor Publication for Darth Vader And Son (2013) and Vader’s Little Princess (2014).
When asked what is next for the author, Brown said that he does have a few projects in the works, but that he has also begun an epic fantasy adventure book, something he has always wanted do. “I try not to overthink how I’m approaching things and just follow what I feel like I what I want to make next,” said Brown.
To find out more about author and artist Jeffrey Brown, click here: Jeffrey Brown Comics. To order a copy of Loved And Lost: A Relationship Trilogy, click here: Top Shelf Productions.
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s reading selection is from Alyson Presser, the marketing manager for Woodland Mall in Kentwood.
Book: The Lying Game Author: Ruth Ware Genre: Thriller
I can recommend “The Lying Game” by Ruth Ware. It’s a great suspenseful novel that throws unsuspecting twists and turns at the reader. Ruth Ware’s storytelling sucks you in and keeps you hooked until the very last page.
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s selection comes from Grand Rapids Public Museum educator Amanda Tabata.
Book: Dinosaur Lady Author: Linda Skeers Genre: Biography/Children
This beautifully illustrated book is perfect for inspiring curiosity in learners of all ages. The text is lively, perfect for reading aloud, while packing a scientific punch. Readers will come away with an appreciation for Mary Anning’s inquisitive spirit and rock solid perseverance. Pair up with the Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs exhibit at the GRPM to see one of Mary Anning’s exciting discoveries!
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s book selection is from TJ Norris. Norris is a financial controller for an international manufacturing company. She is also a serial volunteer for non-profit boards and organizations and loves seeing teams work together to accomplish amazing goals.
Book: Leaders Eat Last Author: Simon Sinek Genre: Business/self-help
In this era of “The Great Resignation,” retaining employees can make or break a company. Sinek’s book, though originally written in 2014, is as timely today as it was then. Filled with wonderful examples of what has worked for various companies, it’s not only a book about keeping your best employees, but it is also about keeping them happy, motivated and loyal. But read a little deeper. Substitute “company” for family, church group, or civic organization, and let the “aha! moments” kick in. This book is consistently on lists of the 10 best business books and, as the author himself states, “Leaps of greatness require the combined problem-solving ability of people who trust each other.”
Take the leap into making your team better, stronger, happier.
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s reading selection comes from Grand Rapids Public Museum’s educator Katie Bilby.
Book: Firekeeper’s Daughter Author: Angeline Boulley Genre: Young Adult Fiction/Mystery/Thriller
Aspiring doctor, Daunis Fontaine is a biracial, unenrolled tribal member on the brink of adulthood. After witnessing a murder, she’s recruited for an undercover investigation into a harmful new drug. Now Daunis must combine her knowledge of modern medicine and traditional practices to save her community and become a strong Anishinaabe kwe (Ojibwe woman).
Set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, this thriller directly connects to the GRPM’s Anishinabek: The People of This Place exhibit. As a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, author Angeline Boulley spent ten years researching how illegal drugs have impacted the Ojibwe people. Her self-proclaimed “Indigenous Nancy Drew story” is as educational as it is exhilarating.
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s book selection comes from WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma. With a journalism career spanning almost 30 years, Joanne has read a lot, from news stories to books.
Book: Little Bear Author: Else Holmelund Minarik, Illustrated by Maurice Sendak Genre: Children’s Fiction
While I grew up reading the stories of that other famous (yellow) bear, my daughters and I often read “Little Bear.” The stories are simple and sweet, showing the love between a mother and child. The best part is that my girls could read along with me, which made reading fun. It also features the work of illustrator Maurice Sendak before his “Where the Wild Beasts” book, which came out in 1963. (The first “Little Bear” was released in 1957.)
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s book selection comes from Nancy Jacobs, co-owner of the Apple Spice Box Lunch Delivery and Catering Co. Apple Spice is located at 701 68th St. SW and offers a variety of box lunches and catering services.
Book: Taste for Truth: A 30-Day Weight Lost Bible Study Author: Barb Raveling Genre: Self-help, Christian
I really love the message behind the book about how to lose weight you have to be in the right place. The book is designed to help readers face the lies that make people eat and focus on the truth that will help them be free of the control food has on them.
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s reading selection comes from Girl Scout Troop 8282. The troop, which is based in City of Wyoming, has seven active girls ranging in ages of 5 to 7. The girls in this troop have done cookie booths and are hoping to go on a troop trip. To learn more about Girl Scouts, visit www.gsmists.org.
Book: The Hummingbird King: A Guatemalan Legend Author: Argentina Palacios Genre: Fiction/folklore
The book tells the Guatemalan legend of a young Mayan chief who is protected from his enemies by a hummingbird and the chief eventually becomes a symbol for peace. According to troop member Valentina, “I liked how the nice king got rewarded for his good deeds at the end,” while troop member Adelina said “I like how others get to learn about my culture even if it is supposed to be the Quetzal bird.”
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s reading selections comes from Starla McDermott, who for the past six years has been serving as the development director for Guiding Light Mission. Since 1929, Guiding Light has been serving the Greater Grand Rapids area with a focus on offering safe and secure shelter for men looking to engage with society. The mission offers the following programs: the Back to Work Program, a short-term housing facility for men who are working or looking for work so they can save for permanent housing; and New Life in Christ, a program for men who are suffering from addiction, homelessness, loss of employment and other issues and they are looking for a new way in life. For more on Guiding Light Mission, visit www.guidinglightworks.org.
Book: Toxic Charity: How the Church Hurts Those They Help and How to Reverse It Author: Robert D. Lupton Genre: Christian Literature
Book: Women Who Run with Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype Author: Clarissa Pinkola Estes Genre: Self-help
For a work-related book, “Toxic Charity” is a good one. Published in 2011, “Toxic Charity” takes a look at traditional charity models and new ways to help, not sabotage, those that charities are trying to help. My personal favorite is “Women Who Run with Wolves,” which unfolds rich intercultural myths, fairy tales, folk tales, and stories, many from her own traditions, in order to help women reconnect with the fierce, healthy, visionary attributes of this instinctual nature.
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s reading selections comes from Katie Favale, who along with being a forensic science technician for the Michigan State Police also has been serving as the mayor of the City of East Grand Rapids for the past two years.
Book: Frenchman’s Creek Author Daphne du Maurier Genre: Historical Fiction
Book: The Dot Author: Peter H. Reynolds Genre: Picture Book
I recommend the “Frenchman’s Creek” because it is a wonderful escape back in time. It has romance, intrigue, pirates and a love story – a great and fun read. “The Dot” is one of my favorite children’s books as it encourages expression and creativity in everyone – truly a family favorite.
