Decorah Public Library will host a presentation and book signing by local author Robert Felde at 7 pm Tuesday January 27 on the second floor of the library. Felde recently published the book “Life at the Crossroads: Reflections from a Country Store.”  

Felde’s presentation will address the life and community related to growing up in a country store; issues related to self publishing; and the importance of writing personal memoirs and local histories.

A 1950’s and 60’s history of a rural community that evolved around a country store, “Life at the Crossroads” takes readers down the paths of coffee table culture in a country store; country school images; kids struggling with redwing blackbirds and the church; fighting communists; neighbors, salesmen and sojourners; life in the tobacco fields; urban renewal and the demise of the country store; and hospitality and the search for community.

Decorah Public Library staff member Kristin Torresdal said “‘Life at the Crossroads’ is a delightful book that readers of all ages will appreciate. Felde describes the environment of his youth in such a way that one can’t help but become attached to the country store and the cast of characters that frequently assembled there. Felde captures the essence of rural life with honesty and humor. The memories that he shares are as heartwarming as they are engaging.” 

Felde grew up in a Wisconsin country store. Seeing no future in farming or rural retailing, he ventured off to multiple colleges and spent over 30 years in college administration. Presently he lives in Decorah, where he works as a writer, on-line journalist/ reporter, and substitute high school teacher.

Copies of “Life at the Crossroads” are available for purchase from several local retailers and will also be on hand at the Jan. 27^th program.

Contact Kristin at Decorah Public Library for more information, 382-3717.