**Alpena Library Ready to Host Authors in the Fall Grant-Funded Project**

Lansing—The Alpena County George N. Fletcher Public Library is gearing up for “Authors in the Fall,” a four-week speaker series that will draw high-caliber authors to northern Michigan. This project is made possible in part by the Michigan Humanities Council through a $15,000 major grant.

“What a great lineup! Alpena’s George N. Fletcher Public Library has pulled together a stellar group of authors that offers something for everyone,” said Katie Wolf, executive director of the Michigan Humanities Council.

“The Humanities Council welcomes the opportunity to support programs like this, bringing unique, high-quality literary opportunities to communities throughout Michigan. We hope those living in the greater Alpena area will take full advantage of this excellent lineup of authors and join in the book discussions,” Wolf said.

On Sept. 29, Jeff “Doc” Fletcher will speak about his books “Rivers Less Paddled” and “Weekend Canoeing in Michigan.” Fletcher will share how he went from an avid outdoorsman to published author by writing and talking about what he loves.

On Oct. 6, children’s author Margaret Wiley will talk about her “Clever Beatrice” book series, based on a spunky heroine from the Upper Peninsula. Wiley received the Charlotte Zolotow Award for this original folktale, and draws in readers with her explorations of folktales and the natural world of Michigan.

On Oct. 13, author and journalist Bob Woodward will talk about his first book, “All the President’s Men,” the book’s effect on the modern American presidency and his subsequent books. Woodward is a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, associate editor of the Washington Post, and is best known for his role in uncovering the Watergate scandal.

On Oct. 20, author and naturalist Jerry Dennis will speak about his new book, “The Windward Shore: A Winter on the Great Lakes.” Dennis has written numerous books about Michigan and nature, including “The Living Great Lakes: Searching for the Heart of the Inland Seas.” His essays and stories have also appeared in the Smithsonian, Audobon, Wildlife Conservation and National Geographic Traveler.

All presentations will begin at 7 p.m. Woodward’s presentation will be held at the Alpena High School Auditorium, and tickets are on sale now ranging from $10-20. Tickets can be purchased from the Alpena library in person, through mail or from their website, www.alpenalibrary.org. All other presentations will be held at the Alpena library and are free admission. For additional information, please call (989) 356-6188.

About the Michigan Humanities Council

The Michigan Humanities Council is a private, nonprofit organization created to foster a better understanding of each other and our state through local cultural, historical and literary experiences for all. The Council was founded in 1974 and is funded in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities and individual donors. For more information on future programs, upcoming grant opportunities or how you can support these efforts, please visit www.michiganhumanities.org or call (517) 372-7770.

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