Dear Reader,

Today’s guest author, Linda Kass says…

I’ve been writing most of my life. I’ve worked as a magazine reporter and correspondent for regional and national publications, a magazine writing instructor at Wayne State University while briefly living in Detroit, and a corporate communications and public affairs executive within the cable television and broadcasting industries in New York City. I co-authored a book about nutrition a long time ago (‘The Real Life Nutrition Book’), and I’ve written four historical novels in the past decade, the first two informed and inspired by my family heritage (‘Tasa’s Song’, ‘A Ritchie Boy’), the third (‘Bessie’) reimagined the early life of 1945 Miss America Bess Myerson. Each novel was recognized, each receiving two awards. I’m also the owner, event curator, and marketer of Gramercy Books, an independent, community-centered bookstore located in Bexley, Ohio.

‘World News from Waverley High’ is my fourth novel. It captures a singular moment in American history told through the eyes of one precocious teenager, Lena Rosen. Set in an integrated public high school during the 1969–1970 school year, a diverse group of classmates forge friendships and debate over issues of race, politics, and belonging, against the backdrop of national unrest. The novel chronicles the spirit and soundtrack of that volatile year for Lena and her fellow students as they navigate high school hallways and a country in crisis.

You can win one of five copies of ‘World New from Waverley High’ Linda is giving away. Send an email to linda@lindakass.com and please include your shipping address in case you’re a winner.

“Wally: Trusted Friend and Bookstore Mascot”

You could say that my bookstore took shape around the time my beloved store mascot, Wally, was born. Wally is a mini–Aussie Labradoodle who I plucked from his litter pals when he was ten weeks old. That was in late April of 2015. By the time Gramercy Books opened its doors on December 12, 2016, Wally was ready to explore the space and engage with visitors.

Wally has black silky fur with a trademark white stripe down his chest like a skunk, and white hair on his chin. While a real momma’s pup, Wally is happy to leave my side to meet new humans and will stand still next to them for as long as they keep stroking his fur. His favorite space is the children’s section with its white shelves, whimsical lights, and food smells since the little people who visit here are often holding a piece of cookie or cracker. At the least, Wally can lick the sticky hands reaching out to him.

Wally has met lots of people in our neighborhood during walks and during his many days hanging out at the bookstore. We decided to give him a special role as mascot with a social media handle, #WallyReads, posting photos of him with his latest selection. Over the years, posts of Wally on Facebook or Instagram have promoted books like ‘Have Dog, Will Travel: A Poet’s Journey’, written by a blind man, Stephen Kuusisto, about his first guide dog, and The Friend by Sigrid Nunez, a novel about a woman battling her own grief alongside a Great Dane suffering through the unexplained disappearance of its master. Others include ‘Hero Dogs’ by Wilma Melville, ‘How to Say I Love You in (almost) Every Language’ by Celeste Shelly, ‘Throw the Damn Ball: Classic Poetry by Dogs’ by R.D. Rosen, Harry Prichett, and Rob Battles, ‘Lessons from Lucy’ by Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Dave Barry, and my personal favorite, ‘Writers and their Pets’ by Kathleen Krull.

The poet, Mary Oliver, in her book ‘Dog Songs’ asks, “What would this world be like without dogs?” Her book celebrates the special bond between human and dog as understood through her own relationship to the canines that have accompanied her daily walks, warmed her home, and inspired her work. Throughout, the many dogs of Oliver’s life merge as fellow travelers and as guides, uniquely able to open our eyes to the lessons of the moment and the joys of nature
and connection.

Wally’s affectionate nature continues to give great joy to everyone he encounters at Gramercy Books (and on his travels near and far). With his sweetness and spirit, he makes a neighborhood bookstore a place where connection, inspiration, and special moments can be
cherished.

— Linda Kass

You can win one of five copies of ‘World New from Waverley High’ Linda is giving away. Send an email to linda@lindakass.com and please include your shipping address in case you’re a winner.

Thanks for reading with me. It’s so good to read with friends.

Suzanne Beecher
Suzanne@DearReader.com