Once upon a time, I lived in Appleton, WI. It was while I was a student at Appleton West High School that I took my first creative writing class, began reading poetry seriously (thanks to the stacks of the public library). It is also where I published my first poems, in the student-run literary publication, Patterns of Stardust. That was back in the days of construction paper covers, staples, mimeographs, and manual typewriters. (Juvenilia, anyone?) (Sorry, I have glued the pages shut!)

This Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 5:00-6:30 p.m., poet Susan Jaret McKinstry will be reading at a wonderful independent bookstore, The Book Store, located at 801 West College Avenue. This venue offers used and new books and hosts a variety of events, including one for knitters and readers. It opened its doors in 1977, the year I graduated from high school. I am delighted that it has thrived all these years, and even more thrilled to return as an author and to be able to read there with Susan. If you are in the area that evening, please join us!

Happy Reading!!! LESLIE