Monday, September 15, 2025

Midmonth Mention: Four Unique Literary Stories



1) I was mesmerized by the lilt in Scottish poet Len Pennie's voice as she read her poem, "The Vow." You can watch it here on You Tube (a short 2 minute recitation). I plan to recommend it to my nephew, Jack, who is getting married. How amazing, she's offering it for free! I'd love to purchase her book of poems, just on the basis of this one poem.

2) I'm hoping others are fascinated to learn what people read (hence, my blog). What a great story to learn about Dan Pelzer, who took the time to record every book he read. He died on July 1, 2025, and his family made public his 109 page list, which includes over 3500 books. Though I haven't taken time to do more than skim the website yet, it sounds like fascinating reading.



3) This next story made me take note because it takes place in Lake Elmo, Minnesota, where my cousin, Karin, grew up. A book, 47 years overdue, was returned to the Lake Elmo Library along with an apology and $200 to offset what fines may have accrued. Amazing!



4) I recently watched a memorial service for the step-father of my CBLI friend, Laura. Although I never knew him, it was a great blessing to get to know him through the father-to-daughter letters shared at the service. He was a delightful correspondent! Thus, when I came across "The Dad Letter Project," I thought I'd mention it here. You can view a brief video about the project here. Kind-hearted dads volunteer to write letters to people who could use encouragement. I love ideas like this. It makes me think, why didn't I think of this?

2 comments:

Gretchen said...

My records are always scrambled. How incredible that Dan Pelzer kept notes on every book he read and that his family made it public! The Dad Letter Project is heartwarming, as well as the lady who wrote a large check for the overdue book. Such projects and individuals lift my heart.

Wendy Hill said...

Gretchen - Yes, I find these stories inspiring, as well. One reason I started blogging was to keep track of what I read, but I will admit I sometimes read a book and choose not to review it. I try to add those titles to a yearly list of "Books Read/Not Reviewed," but my records can get scrambled, too.