At the Brown County Library: Memoirs with Midwestern roots

"Interior States: Essays" by Meghan O’Gieblyn

Madison author O’Gieblyn was raised in a Midwestern evangelical Protestant home and, although she no longer practices the religion of her youth, it has shaped her and is woven throughout the essays she writes. Many of these essays were individually published previously, but together they form a quasi-memoir. Her poetic descriptions like, “It was the kind of day in Detroit, late in the course of a temperate summer, when the heat rebounds and the humidity returns with a vengeance,” form a visual scene for the reader. Topics include everyday life in Muskegon, Mich., and Madison; her evangelical upbringing; creationism; Pure Michigan advertisements/propaganda; and nostalgia for times gone by. Written in her plain-spoken manner, her essays are authentic and relatable. The complex identity of Midwesterners is on display is this lighthearted and genuine collection of essays.

"A Fork in the Road" by Ronald E. Bergmann

Bergmann spent his childhood in Reedsville before moving to California as an adult. In this memoir, he recollects playing in the baseball sandlot, joining the Boy Scouts, college experiences at UW-Stout (including his first date and joining the wrestling team), teaching, road-tripping with his daughters and raising guide dogs. He doesn’t shy away from tough topics like the death of his mom and relationship difficulties he’s endured. Bergmann writes with a casual tone and includes a larger print and short paragraphs, making this an easy title to read and quick to finish. Although some memories are glossed over and might have provided a deeper source of material, those who grew up during the mid-20th century will appreciate his memories.

"The Greatest Love Story Ever Told" by Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman

Mullally and Offerman, well-known for their roles on "Will and Grace" and "Parks and Recreation," open up to their fans about their love story in this laugh-out-loud volume. Written in the style of a Q and A, this comedic power couple play off each other skillfully. Their tone of voice is apparent to readers — with Mullally’s exuberant enthusiasm balancing out Offerman’s dry wit. They are perfectly honest as they discuss Nick’s Midwestern roots, meeting in Los Angeles at a play, their past relationships, religion and music. They have pushed boundaries in the past and continue to do so here, but fans will appreciate the raw authenticity and romance found with these pages. This intimate, no-holds barred peek at their relationship is a must for readers of celebrity memoirs.

For more information about Wisconsin and Midwest authors, books and other related resources, visit the Brown County Library or call 920-448-4400.