The Grand Marais Public Library is excited to host an author talk by Barbara J. Mack on her memoir, The Hand I’ve Been Dealt: A Life Lived with Epilepsy, on Wednesday, March 20, from 6:00-7:30 PM.

Mack grew up in a loving home on a hardworking family farm. At twenty years old, her life changed forever after a near tragic car accident. In the aftermath, the doctor diagnosed her with a seizure disorder for which there was little information or support, causing her to lean even more on her tightly knit family. Just as she was beginning to manage her seizures, an unexpected pregnancy upended her life again, introducing new difficulties to her as a single mom. But once again the support of friends and family helped her navigate trying times.

Reviewers have described her memoir as “so encouraging, well-written and engaging—hard to put down!” and “a great fast read that provides insight for people with seizure disorders and their support network.” Through her whimsical stories of family life and heartbreaking years of medical challenges, Mack’s story educates and inspires others to better cope with the hand they’ve been dealt.

This event is free and open to the public, and seating will begin at 5:30 PM. Mack will have books on hand to buy, and will answer questions in the last portion of her talk.  

In other news, the library is continuing its Winter Reading Program through the end of March for adults, with prize drawings for each prize basket happening on Fridays: on March 8, the Deep Dark Winter basket; on March 15, the Cozy Mystery basket; on March 22, the Crafter's basket; and on March 29, the Library Lovers basket. For more information, call the library at 218-387-1140 or visit our website: www.grandmaraislibrary.org.