An Engaging Evening with Author Daniel J. Brown

The Mount Vernon Library Foundation’s Presentation of Daniel J. Brown at the Lincoln Theatre
 
When we read a book, we engage with its writer to find meaning in the words he or she has written. We may think about choices the author made, reflect on new insights and information, and lose ourselves to other times and places.  Such is the case with The Boys in the Boat (about the University of Washington’s 1936 Olympic rowing team) and Facing the Mountain (about young Japanese-Americans who fought in WWII while their families were imprisoned in internment camps). 
 
On Saturday March 8, 2025 the Mount Vernon Library Foundation brought author, Daniel J. Brown to the Lincoln Theatre where he told stories of writing these two books: how he found the stories,  how he met with the books’ heroes or people who had known them, how he researched details, and most importantly—what he learned about valor and strength of character from the men whose stories he told.  
 
Many audience members had read one or both books. During the question-and-answer time several former rowers told stories of their experiences with subsequent University of Washington crews. One even wore his crew letter sweater. Others talked about their relatives who fought in the 442nd and their families who were interned in camps during the war. Both books told stories of people who had lived in the Skagit Valley, and the evening with its author brought us together.
 
The best part?  The community came together by the power of the written word and stories of human valor that connect us all. We will remember the evening for a long time.  
 
The Mount Vernon Library Foundation is grateful to everyone who supported the event.