How a midwestern upbringing, a career in television production and his mother set New York Times bestselling author J. Ryan Stradal on his path to becoming the writer he always wanted to be
If you're looking for books in which Minnesota plays a key role, try the novels of Jon Hassler. Starting with his debut, Staggerford (1977), he wrote nine excellent novels, finishing with The Dean's List (1998).
Thanks for this author recommendation and all the links, Gayla. Living in SoCal, I tend to hold onto unfair stereotypes about the Midwest, even though so many folk here hail from there. Look forward to opening my mind a bit by checking out J. Ryan Stradal.
An Author and His Books, J. Ryan Stradal
This is so great! I actually grew up in Hastings as well, just a few years after J. I actually interviewed him last year after I read Lager Queen: https://readmorebooks.substack.com/p/a-few-bookish-questions-with-j-ryan.
Such a pleasure to see him featured here! His books are such a joy.
If you're looking for books in which Minnesota plays a key role, try the novels of Jon Hassler. Starting with his debut, Staggerford (1977), he wrote nine excellent novels, finishing with The Dean's List (1998).
Love it. Nice angle for introducing readers to authors, their work, and their respective backgrounds : )
Thanks! I’m going to look into giving one a read!
I trust your judgment, so shall check this out!
Thanks for this author recommendation and all the links, Gayla. Living in SoCal, I tend to hold onto unfair stereotypes about the Midwest, even though so many folk here hail from there. Look forward to opening my mind a bit by checking out J. Ryan Stradal.
Thank you so much for the incredibly kind and well-researched profile! I’m moved to read this — and grateful to have earned you as a reader.
Gayla, I’d be honored! I’d be happy to do it over email — send your questions to kitchens.midwest@gmail.com whenever you’re ready.