It was a Sunday near Martin Luther King Jr. day, my senior year of college, and I was visiting a church I had never attended before with two of my roommates. Near the close of the service, we sang a stirring and unfamiliar song. At the bottom of the music, I read, “African-American National Anthem.” […]
I never remember reading about them in a history book, though possibly I did. Though their story was declassified from military secrecy in 1968, these quiet World War II heroes were not officially honored until 2001. Yet their actions helped turn the tide of the war in the Pacific and save countless lives. They are […]
Today marks the first of November, All Saints Day, when the Catholic Church has for centuries honored departed followers of Christ, especially those martyred for their faith. Nearly 500 years ago yesterday, a certain fiery German named Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses against papal indulgences—pieces of paper that claimed to offer divine forgiveness for […]
Last week I found out why historical novelists love reference librarians. I heard it in both research workshops I’ve attended at writers conferences: “Talk to your local reference librarian. They LOVE to answer questions and help you out; it’s what they’re trained to do.” I kept meaning to try it, but not following through. Last […]
