Perhaps the greatest joy in writing and publishing my books has been the inclusion of co-authors. All five of my kids included their stories of growing up in Wilmington. (“603 South Kankakee”) I then asked my 14 grandchildren to write a story, about anything, that would be included in the next book. (“Just the Facts, Grandpa: Geezer Gets Grilled by Grandkids”)
The latest book, “I’m from Braidwood,” features stories from sixteen former or current residents of Braidwood. Their 25 stories, written from the heart, adds beauty and charm to an otherwise routine memoir written by a guy who values his upbringing in this small town. When you read it, you will be touched by stories about hidden gems that only the authors can describe as so meaningful. Such as: Kefauver the pony; the grape juice incident; a lavender cup and saucer; a euchre table; Lower Braidwood; a goat collar tiny bell; a glass bowl with ice cream and a metal spoon.
You might consider the book as a “literary quilt,” stitched together with a common theme.
The co-authors deserve credit for making a significant contribution to Braidwood history during the 1940s and 1950s. It might be a small step when we respond to a grandchild’s question, “What was it like to grow up in a small town when you were young?”
Thanks to the following co-authors for being a huge part of the book pictured below.
I am presently considering a 2nd book, “I’m from Braidwood, Too,” and will need other Braidwood former and current people to submit their stories. For example: the Bohac, Faletti, Pinnick, Turner, Rossi, Hornberger, Patterson, Arthur, Ashenbrenner, Dillon, Bergera, etc. families. Any takers?
Braidwood Beginnings 
My Great grandparents (Karel and Marie Maly) came to Braidwood in 1888 from Bohemia and the Maly family has lived here in town in some way ever since. I have been working on a book myself covering this.
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Will you write a story for the next book?
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I can try! I am more an artist than a writer.
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You can do it!
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Come to the book signing on Saturday, October 25th at noon. Location: Braidwood Historical Society. See you there?
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Thank you for being in my life! Your writings are so interesting and a delight to read.
I look forward to getting this latest book. I’m going to order it online. I’ve asked George to hold one for me when you drop some off at the museum. I will have one my son and daughter.
Let me know when you will be going to Braidwood next. I’ll try to get town to visit with you.
Cheers!
Dee deGroh
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Thanks once again, Dee. Yes, let’s have a group of the co-authors have a book signing in Braidwood. Can we arrange for something like this?
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Yikes! I just found this in my email. It was never sent. Oh well, better late than never!!
You are a delight in my life! Thank you for sharing all that you have with so many of us!
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Dee, I will be in Illinois on the weekend of October 25. How about some co-authors have a book signing in Braidwood? Get as many together as possible?
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Tom, what a terrific idea!! I’ll plan to be there! You sure have a lot of people who wrote articles for this book.
Thanks so much!!!
Dee
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