More than ever in history, marginalized groups are announcing to the world “we are here, we have always been here, and we matter!” This message is incredible for young people to see and hear who may feel that they don’t fit the norms, or feel unseen, or unheard.
The Aurora Public Library District (APLD) is incredibly lucky to have an author whose recent book portrays these exact themes. Tuesday, Sept. 13, the Library will proudly be host to Michael Leali when he discusses his debut middle grade novel, The Civil War of Amos Abernathy.
As a child, when Michael Leali wasn’t buried in a book, he was performing. He sang in multiple choirs and acted in plays and musicals. After graduating college with a major in English secondary education and a minor in music, he returned to the theater company of his youth as administrative director.
Over the years he has worked as the children’s manager at Anderson’s Bookshop and a marketing specialist at Sourcebooks, both in Naperville.
Leali works as an educator in Oswego. At this Library event, customers will get the rare opportunity to connect with a published author whose debut juvenile novel is part of our collection! They will hear about his inspiration for The Civil War of Amos Abernathy, featuring 12-year-old Amos Abernathy, an openly gay historical reenactor who is committed to demonstrating “that queer people always have and always will exist in American history (michaelleali.com).”
Readers of any age will enjoy this accessible and family-friendly story, but particularly anyone interested in American history and the American Civil War. Leali reveals mirrors in which our young customers can see themselves, as well as windows for them to peek into the experiences and perspectives of someone else. Eola Road Branch manager, Krista Danis, said, “This novel and its fearless antagonist illuminate a history that is kept in the shadows of our dominant narrative. Our customers can expect a reimagined perspective of patriotism, heroism, and courage. Bringing Leali into the Library was a customer request, but also aligns perfectly with the Restoring Aurora and Advancing Through Equity pillars of our strategic plan.”.
This program is for any aspiring writers who are looking for more information about breaking into the world of publishing. What better source than a local author who just released his first novel? The Library event, An Evening with Author Michael Leali!, will begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, in the Eola Road Branch large meeting room. Attendees will have time to meet Michael and purchase a signed copy of his book. It will be broadcast virtually on our Facebook page for viewing (www.facebook.com/aplibraryIL). For more information, please visit our events page www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events or contact the Library at 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.