Author visit draws large crowd to Gilman Celebration Hall

Celebrations Hall in Gilman was packed to the rafters as guests gathered to spend an evening with bestselling author, William Kent Krueger, on Friday, June 27.

Attendees came out in droves to welcome the author. Drinks and charcuterie trays were served to those attending the event. The event was sponsored by the Friends of the Western Taylor County Public Library.

Krueger, who is based out of St. Paul, mingled with readers, signed copies and addressed the audience throughout the evening. Krueger has written over 30 novels, but is well-known for his mystery series set in the north woods of Minnesota. Krueger’s last 13 novels have all been New York Times bestsellers, and his work has received a number of awards.

Western Taylor County Public Library director Rita Ludvigson introduced Krueger who reported a love of libraries, stating that it was a librarian who helped channel his creativity at a young age, helping a young man with a love for comic books learn about other dynamic characters such as the Count of Monte Cristo.

“I have a special place in my heart for libraries,” said Krueger. “I’m here to promote awareness of the Western Taylor County Public Library and the good work they do in this area.”

Krueger also read excerpts from his novels “Apostle’s Cove” and “This Tender Land.”