This collection encompasses 50-plus years of interviews, readings, speeches, and reports on the vibrant literary scene in Minnesota. Not only home to giants F. Scott Fitzgerald and Sinclair Lewis, our state has an array of incredible contemporary poets, novelists, and playwrights. Their words make up majority of this collection.
Repeatedly being named the “Most Literate City in the United States,” the Twin Cities has played host to numerous visiting national writers via book tours, festivals, and lectures. Many recordings of these are also included.
This project was funded by the National Historical Publications & Records Commission.
June 29, 1991 - Midday’s Bob Potter talks with Minnesota writer John Shepard, who answers listener questions about places to go and things to see all around the region.
July 2, 1991 - Minnesota-based author, educator, and outdoor enthusiast Bill Hansen shares his essay, Family Resorts.
July 12, 1991 - A Voices from the Heartland essay by writer and poet Laurie Allmann on the sights and sounds of Sawbill Trail…and the looming highway plans.
July 18, 1991 - MPR’s Kate Moos interviews Scott Walker, co-founder of Graywolf Press, about the increasing recognition and success of literary and non-profit book presses.
August 21, 1991 - A Voices from the Heartland essay by writer and poet Laurie Allmann on the end of summer.
August 24, 1991 - On this special State Fair Midday program, MPR’s Gary Eichten talks with Karal Ann Marling and Jeff Johnson about Minnesota State Fair history and attractions. The two also answer fair audience and listener questions.
August 27, 1991 - Minnesota-based author, educator, and outdoor enthusiast Bill Hansen presents an essay that warns to “watch your pack.”
August 28, 1991 - Minnesota author Will Weaver gives his first radio commentary…one which is a short list of six things things he knows…for sure.
August 30, 1991 - On this Voices from the Heartland, an interview with naturalist writer and commentator Laurie Allmann, who details how she writes about nature and how it comes from direct experience.
August 30, 1991 - On this Midday broadcast from the Minnesota State Fair, a conversation with Minnesota authors Leif Enger, Lin Enger, and Will Weaver. The Enger brothers discuss the Gun Pedersen Mystery book series. Will Weaver chats about his various fiction and how his rural experience provides context for his work.