Author's Corner

By Molly Milroy

TheTwin Ports teems with talent ranging from musicians to artists and beyond. Included in this group are three local authors whose books contribute to the creative collective we call home.

Children will be drawn into a story about a teacher and her students as they turn a disaster into a celebration. Adults and children alike will find themselves captivated with a series about magical adventures in the Northwoods. Lastly, women will connect to a personal story about divorce and how even the hardest times can bring new discoveries and joy. Explore these three reads!

Hundredth Day Disaster

“Hundredth Day Disaster” is a delightful children’s book about celebrating the 100th day in school. Inspired by a true story, the plot revolves around a teacher who miscalculates the 100th day and is frantic to figure out how to celebrate with her students.

Author Bridget Reistad, faculty librarian at Lake Superior College, said, “As I worked in K-12 schools for 15 years, I can attest to the sometimes chaotic situations that occur in schools. In the story, the students become the heroes and help save the day (also something I witnessed a great deal in school).”

An educator for over 25 years, Reistad instills her love of literature with children, hoping to inspire them to read more. She brings “Hundredth Day Disaster” to life through live readings at libraries and schools where children also take in the bright and animated illustrations from Duluth based Brian Barber. This book makes a great gift for a teacher, principal and any student with a sense of adventure.

This is Reistad’s first book, but she has more stories in the works, including another children’s book along with eBooks through the Minnesota Library Publishing Project, one which will feature artist Ray Naddy. Visit www. bridgetreistad.com where you can purchase “Hundredth Day Disaster” and find 110th day activities for parents and teachers.

Wyrd Woods Series

With a Ph.D. in English literature, Michelle Nephew has a passion for both reading and writing. Her Wyrd Woods eBook series is inspired by the time spent at her family cabin, located in northern Minnesota. The series follows characters Sophie, Emma and Jack who live a normal life going to school during the week, but on the weekends all of that changes while visiting their family’s log cabin in the Wyrd Woods.

“They soon discover that the forest is magical, and over the course of the books they explore the strange and wondrous Northwoods, finding fantastical creatures and exciting adventures at every turn,” said Nephew.

The books are early reader chapter books and are perfect for elementary children in first to third grades.

“They have shorter chapter lengths, easier vocabulary, and subjects appropriate for young readers just starting their reading adventures,” explained Nephew. “Each book also includes a special Parent’s Guide section with ideas to talk about with your child, a sneak preview of the next book in the series, and other bonus material.”

The first two books, “Autumn in the Wyrd Woods” and “Summer in the Wyrd Woods” are currently available and will soon be followed by

“Winter in the Wyrd Woods.” You can find out more about Nephew and the Wyrd Wood Series at michellenephew.com.

Divorce is Awesome

Angela Paulson knows firsthand the difficulties of divorce. Although, through experiencing her own, she came to understand that divorce doesn’t have to be negative. It can be awesome, as it is an adventure into a new beginning.

“This book reads like a conversation with a regular person dedicated to proclaiming the awesomeness of divorce and focuses on how challenges lead to so much better. It chronicles the storm and the rainbows that follow,” Paulson explained.

The book intertwines knowledge and inspiration with Paulson’s intent in wanting to reach others, “..sharing what I went through leading up to, during, and following my divorce might help others come to terms with their own experiences and feel less alone,” Paulson said.

Since the publication, she has received a multitude of positive feedback.

“People have contacted me after reading it and expressed gratitude for putting a voice to their own feelings,” saod

Paulson, “as many divorced women go through the same emotions and deal with similar issues with ex-spouses and the court system. One of my favorite comments said, ‘Thanks for writing my story.’”

Paulson’s story helps others through their own experiences.

“It eliminates the idea that divorce is a fail and empowers the reader to choose joy,” she explained.

The book is available through Kindle and paperback through Amazon. D

Writing and sharing a story is an exhilarating and rewarding experience. These local authors know this firsthand and are proud to share their works with our community and beyond. Check them out, give as gifts or share with a friend!

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