Salina Arts & Humanities
Essays by 35 Salina and Saline County residents and 24 brief vignettes from other residents are featured in a new book published by Salina Arts & Humanities.
Many and Varied Paths: Real-Life Stories from the Kansas Plains, a Mennonite Press publication, is the brainchild of Salina Arts & Humanities commissioner Mike Durall who was responding in part to the department’s mission “to change lives and build community.” He asked the contributors to think about a life-changing moment that helped shape who they are today.
“Each day, we encounter friends, family members, colleagues, and strangers as we go about our normal routines. Yet we rarely know what is truly in their hearts and souls,” Durall said.
The stories are a glimpse into the writer’s world.
A special reading of selected essays and a discussion with the authors and editor is planned for 7 p.m. Nov. 16 in the lobby of the Smoky Hill Museum, 211 W. Iron Avenue.
The contributors come from diverse backgrounds and share personal stories about challenges, triumph, loss, and perseverance. The writing styles each reflect the author’s voice creating an authentic collection of voices from across the region.
Regarding his aspirations as editor of the book Durall offered, “I hope this book will encourage us to look kindly upon one another with compassion and understanding because we are all wayfarers on life’s uncertain journey.”
Private contributions covered the production costs, and city funding was used for editorial expenses. Copies are available at the Salina Public Library and other publicly accessible spaces such as waiting rooms, school libraries, non-profit agencies, and other community venues. The books are also for sale at the Smoky Hill Museum Store.