Laureate Writers’ Series Hosts Book Launch for Poet Jim Johnson

Tuesday, July 1 | 7pm
Free to the Public
Blue Heron Coffeehouse | 162 W 2nd St
Shipwreckt Books

Shipwreckt Books, of Winona, has just released Jim Johnson’s Selected Poems, “A Good Sauna Always Burns Down.” Johnson will be reading from his new book on Tuesday, July 1st at the Blue Heron Coffeehouse at 7pm.

Jim Johnson grew up in Northern Minnesota where he developed an awareness and concern for culture and local history as well as the natural world. He is a former Duluth Poet Laureate (twice) and has previously published 12 other books of poetry. His work has been widely published and anthologized. “A Good Sauna Always Burns Down” collects Jim’s poetry based on his Finnish-American heritage. In this book, he captures the essence of that heritage.

Jim Johnson splits his time between Decorah, Iowa, and Isabella, Minnesota (population 40). The reading will be followed by a Q&A, book signing, and an Open Mic. This event is open to the public and free of charge. The series is sponsored by the Blue Heron Coffeehouse , Chapter 2 Books, Friends of the Winona Public Library, Richard and Sara Ricker, and Laurie Lucas.

Shipwreckt Books, Daryl Lanz (owner of Chapter 2 Books), and Laurie Lucas are members of the River Arts Alliance. To learn more about the benefits of membership, please visit: riverartsalliance.org/JOIN.