Writer Jim Heynen at St. Olaf College

Today, writer Jim Heynen visited St. Olaf College for a reading and book signing. He read some of his short stories and excerpts from his latest novel, The Fall of Alice K.

I was priviledged to coordinate Jim's visit and to introduce him to the audience. Jim had taught in the English Department at St. Olaf College, from 1992-2007. He was a great colleague. I told him then that I greatly admired his stories of farm boys, since I also grew up in a rural area, steeped in farming.


Jim is a prolific writer. Starting with collections of short stories such as The One-Room Schoolhouse, and the The Man Who Kept Cigars in His Cap, he went on to write novels for young adults, including Cosmos Coyote and Being Youngest. He also writes poetry.

Jim's reading today was delightful. Everyone liked his stories very much. After the reading, Jim signed copies of his book, as can be seen in the photos featured here.

Jim's visit was sponsored by the St. Olaf College Bookstore and the English Department. Here on the left is Jim, flanked by Ruth Block of the St. Olaf College Bookstore and me.