Ted Kooser: More Than a Local Wonder

Ted Kooser was an unathletic child growing up in Iowa, who found solace in stories and one specific book, Robert McCloskeys Lentil, inspired him to become a writer. His book, Ted Kooser: More Than a Local Wonder, celebrates the power of stories and finding oneself through words.

Format: Hardback
Length: 40 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2023
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Before achieving immense literary acclaim, including a Pulitzer Prize for Poetry, serving as the U.S. Poet Laureate, and penning award-winning books for children, Ted Kooser was an unathletic child growing up in Iowa. In his youth, he found solace in stories, particularly one book, Robert McCloskeys Lentil, which sparked a deep passion for writing within him. Throughout his childhood and later years, while working in the insurance industry, Ted honed his craft and developed a distinctive writing style, capturing the essence of the rural Midwest and the people and places that shaped his life.

Ted Kooser: More Than a Local Wonder is a captivating celebration of the transformative power of stories and the profound journey of self-discovery through the written word. This book delves into the life and literary career of Ted Kooser, tracing his humble beginnings in Iowa to his rise to national recognition. Through his poignant anecdotes and lyrical prose, Kooser explores the universal themes of love, loss, resilience, and the human connection, resonating with readers of all ages.

Kooser's journey as a writer is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, he never lost sight of his passion for storytelling. His unwavering commitment to his craft led him to publish numerous collections of poetry, including Some Birds Can't Fly and Weather Central. His children's books, such as Splitting an Order and The Poetry Home Repair Manual, have also received widespread acclaim, earning him numerous awards and accolades.

In addition to his literary achievements, Ted Kooser has also been actively involved in promoting literacy and the arts in his community. He has served as a visiting poet at numerous schools and universities, inspiring young minds with his words and encouraging them to embrace their creative potential. Kooser's commitment to education and the arts extends beyond his own work, as he has established the Ted Kooser Writing Program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, which aims to nurture and support emerging writers.

Through Ted Kooser: More Than a Local Wonder, readers are invited to embark on a journey of discovery and inspiration. This book serves as a tribute to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of words on our lives. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, the written word can provide solace, guidance, and a means of self-expression. As Kooser himself once said, "Writing is a way of discovering who we are and where we belong. It's a way of connecting with others and with ourselves."

In conclusion, Ted Kooser's literary legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the universal human experience. His books have touched the hearts of millions of readers, and his unwavering commitment to storytelling has left an indelible mark on the literary world. Through Ted Kooser: More Than a Local Wonder, we are invited to celebrate the power of words and the profound impact they can have on our lives.

Weight: 494g
Dimension: 263 x 261 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496236777