Memoirist explores troubled history of one Ojibwe family in 20th-century Minnesota
This will be a busy and exciting summer for Appleton author Jill D. Swenson as she travels throughout the country promoting her first book. The Land of Everlasting Sky: A Memoir of Loss and Legacy on Lake of the Woods, published by She Writes Press, will be released on June 2.
Described as a ‘braided memoir’, the seeds for Swenson’s book were planted after returning to Minnesota for her mother’s funeral. Swenson’s personal stories of loss are interwoven with the stories of the descendants of Ojibway spiritual leader Kakaygeesick. Lessons learned about relationships and our inherited history are universal.
On May 28, Swenson will speak at the Appleton Public Library. The 6 pm presentation is part of a monthly public lecture series co-sponsored by Lawrence University and the Appleton Public Library.
In addition, Swenson will be holding several other local events before hitting the road.
May 30 - Block of Books Fair, The Book Store in Appleton, 11 am – 2 pm
June 6 - Reading and signing, Thomas A. Lyons Fine Books in Neenah, 2-4 pm
June 20 - Reading and signing, The Book Store in Appleton, 1-3 pm
June 25 - Reading and signing, Lion’s Mouth Bookstore in Green Bay, 6 pm
Swenson is a graduate of Appleton HS East and Lawrence University. She earned her M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Chicago.
With her extensive background in teaching, editing, and coaching, she started her own consulting business, Swenson Book Development LLC. The website notes that Swenson will help you “grow your idea into a great book.”
Look for a future story soon by The Dairyland Patriot about Swenson’s fascinating life experience that inspired The Land of Everlasting Sky: A Memoir of Loss and Legacy on Lake of the Woods.
