As the crowdfunding chapter on Indiegogo comes to a close in less than 2 weeks, I find myself filled with gratitude and excitement. Together, we are bringing Hearts of Glass: Living in the Real World to life through the support of an incredible community.
This YA novel—set in the late 1980s—dives into some heavy themes like sexual assault and domestic violence, but at its core it celebrates the strength of women, the possibilities of strong young men, and the power of not facing life alone. Those themes of resilience and community have guided this journey from day one. Now, with the support of so many beautiful people behind me, a new chapter begins: meeting readers face to face, in the real world, in spaces that beautifully reflect the spirit of the book.
This spring, I’m kicking off a book tour to connect with you, face to face and heart to heart. And I couldn’t have picked better places for these first gatherings. Each venue we’ll visit isn’t just a location on a map; it’s a community space full of warmth, welcome, and a little bit of magic. These are places run by passionate people who believe in inclusion, connection, and the magic of stories. In other words, they’re the perfect spots to celebrate Hearts of Glass: Living in the Real World. Below, you’ll find the first three stops of the tour. I hope you’ll join me at one (or all!) of these events so we can share in the story together.
April 5 – Fountaindale Public Library (Bolingbrook, IL) 2:30 to 5:00 PM
It all begins in my childhood’s backyard! I couldn’t have chosen a more meaningful place to kick off this tour than Fountaindale Public Library. This isn’t just any library to me. It’s the very place where me and my adult child, Harvey, grew up exploring books. We’ve spent countless afternoons here lost in stories or excitedly attending community programs. From lively story hours to summer reading challenges, Fountaindale gave Harvey and me a safe, welcoming haven to learn, imagine, and grow. In so many ways, this library helped shape me into a better person and father; it offered resources, comfort, and a sense of community exactly when I needed it. For me, Fountaindale was the beginning of my library journey. It was where I learned that libraries have always been more than four walls of books… it’s been a second home filled with discovery and growth that is essential to the public square and third places.
Coming back to Fountaindale as an author for the very first stop of my book release tour feels like a homecoming. I’m incredibly grateful to this library (and the wonderful people who run it) for not only giving us so much over the years, but also for opening their doors to launch Hearts of Glass into the world.
Though I do not remember my first visit there in the 70’s, I still remember walking in with Harvey as just a proud dad to get the very first library card! On April 5, I’ll walk in as a storyteller ready to share the book and give back, in a small way, that which my discovery of stories there helped inspire.
It’s a full-circle moment that has my heart swelling with gratitude and nostalgia. I might need to fight back a few tears when I enter the library. Their encouragement and the resources they provided when I was a young boy and teenager played a part in making this novel, and this day, possible.
So what can you expect at our Bolingbrook kickoff event? We’ll keep it warm and informal. I plan to read a favorite excerpt or three from Hearts of Glass, share some behind-the-scenes stories of writing a YA novel rooted in 1980s memories, and answer your questions in a heartfelt Q&A. I’ll be signing books as well. But more than that, I’m looking forward to simply connecting with you in the very place that embodies the spirit of the story. If Hearts of Glass celebrates the idea that no one should face life alone and we stand stronger in community, then Fountaindale Library is living proof of that ideal. Being there, surrounded by neighbors and friends, will remind us all why stories and spaces like this matter so much.
I truly hope you’ll join us on April 5th for this special, emotional first stop. Whether you’re a longtime Bolingbrook resident who has your own cherished memories at Fountaindale, or you’re new to the community and curious about the book, everyone is welcome. Let’s turn this afternoon into a celebration of community, resilience, and the power of not facing life alone. If you can come, I will see you there for the start of something truly special!
April 17 – Peoria Book Rack (Peoria, IL) 4:30-7:30PM
Next, Hearts of Glass is hitting the road to Peoria… the city so storied in American culture that it inspired the famous question, “Will it play in Peoria?” For those who haven’t heard that saying, it comes from vaudeville days and speaks to Peoria’s reputation as the ultimate test of broad appeal. In other words, if something resonates in Peoria, it can resonate anywhere.
Growing up, I often heard that phrase, and it stuck with me. Now I get to find out firsthand if our story of Ford, Cassie, and Jenny “plays” in Peoria, and that carries a very personal meaning for me. Peoria has a rich cultural and historical significance as a crossroads of Middle America, and I’m honored (and a little awed) to bring my book to this vibrant community. Additionally, in the 80’s Peoria was where I not only Saw Tron, but also ToTo!
Our venue here is the Peoria Book Rack, a beloved independent bookstore that’s been a cornerstone for local readers for over 50 years. The Book Rack has seen generations of book lovers walk through its doors. In fact, it’s both woman-owned and veteran-owned, run by another incredible woman at the helm – the wonderful Stacy, who has poured her heart into keeping the store a welcoming haven.
According to my scout/spy, from the moment you step inside, you feel that old-school bookstore magic: the welcoming at the door, aisles of well-loved books, and greeted like you are an old friend. It’s the kind of place where you might find a rare out-of-print gem or a new favorite novel, and you’re just as likely to strike up a conversation with a stranger about the book in your hand. I can’t express how meaningful it is to have a stop here. “Will it play in Peoria?” is more than a saying to me now… it’s an invitation to connect with readers in a town that epitomizes the heartland’s spirit.
At our Peoria stop, I’ll do a reading and signing, and I suspect we’ll end up chatting about everything from 1980s mall memories to how stories like this can bridge generations. If you’re anywhere near central Illinois, I hope you’ll come out and make this a truly special evening. Let’s show that Hearts of Glass not only plays in Peoria, but finds a home there.
April 19 – Frugal Muse Books & Music (Darien, IL) 2-4PM
The final stop on this kickoff tour holds a special place in my heart. They are right down the street from me and I’ve been shopping there for 11 years since I moved to the area. Frugal Muse Books & Music in Darien was the very first bookstore I approached about hosting an event for Hearts of Glass.
I still remember walking in with nervous hope, introducing myself and my not-yet-released book, and asking if they’d consider letting an little known author who has not published a book in 11 years host a signing. Without missing a beat, Paul at Frugal Muse gave me my first “yes.” He was the first to say, “We believe in you and your story,” and that vote of confidence meant the world to me. Now, to be actually planning an event there as a published author feels like coming full circle. I’ll never forget that kindness and support.
Frugal Muse is a bit of a local legend. It’s well-known for its steadfast support of both local and national authors, often hosting book signings, readings, and even live music in the store. If you’re from the Chicago suburbs, chances are you’ve heard of it or have spent a lazy Saturday afternoon browsing their huge selection of new and used books, music, and movies.
The store has this amazing atmosphere… cozy and unpretentious, but also buzzing with the energy of discovery. The owners (a dynamic husband-and-wife team, Paul and Robyn Garrison) have cultivated a true community space for readers. They understand that a bookstore is more than just a retail shop; it’s a gathering place, a cultural venue, and a refuge for anyone who finds comfort in stories and music. Being hosted by Frugal Muse is an honor I cherish.
Our event on April 19 will feature an author talk where I’ll share some behind-the-scenes stories of writing Hearts of Glass, a discussion about the themes of the book, and of course a signing. But more than that, it’ll be a celebration. I want to celebrate Frugal Muse’s generosity, their championing of storytellers, and celebrate you… readers, friends, and supporters who will grace the store that day. This is going to feel a bit like a homecoming party for Hearts of Glass, and everyone’s invited.
Strength in Community: A Heartfelt Thank You
Each of these stops, Fountainale Public Library, Peoria Book Rack, and Frugal Muse, holds a mirror up to the themes of Hearts of Glass. They remind us that even in a world that can be harsh, there are safe havens created by good people where we can find laughter, understanding, and connection. Just as Ford, Cassie, and Jenny discover that they’re not alone in facing life’s battles, I’ve discovered I’m not alone in bringing this book into the world. I have all of you, and I have these wonderful community spaces standing with me. For that, I am profoundly grateful.
To Stacy, Paul and Robyn, and the amazing people at Fountaindale Library and all the staff and supporters at these venues: thank you for opening your doors (and your hearts) to me and my readers. Your belief in the story and its message means more than I can say. And to everyone who backs and shares the Indiegogo: thank you. This tour is possible because of your support and enthusiasm. You’ve turned a solitary act of writing into a shared adventure.
I truly cannot wait to meet you (yes, you reading this!) in person. Come as you are. Let’s shake hands or hug, chat about the ’80s, music, the beauty in the midst of trauma, or about what inspired the book, and most importantly, let’s share a moment that reminds us why we never have to face life alone. The story of Hearts of Glass lives and breathes in the community that has formed around it. Now it’s time to celebrate that community together in the real world.
So here’s to the next chapter of this journey. I’m looking forward to seeing familiar faces and new ones, hearing your stories, and signing a few books along the way. Together, we’ll make these events something special—filled with the same hope, heart, and camaraderie that Hearts of Glass is all about.
Thank you, and see you on tour!
Before you go! There is still time to help the Indiegogo!
Ford is a traumatized former child model. Cassie is the epitome of DIY punk with a life full of poverty and pain serving smoothies at the Orange Julius. There is also Jenny, a young preppy with talent and dreams held back by a society not designed for women like her.
As their lives intersect in the late 1980’s at the Fox Valley Mall in Aurora, Illinois, there will be love, confusion, and dangerous adversaries with wealth and power.
Ford, Cassie and Jenny just have each other. Will it be enough? How do they survive as Hearts of Glass Living in the Real World?
By going to the indiegogo, you can not only secure yourself advance copies of the book, special merch, and experiences, but you get to help provide copies to teens that live in shelters and seek resources in community centers. You also provide opportunities for ASL translators at our speaking events about this wonderful book. Go to the link, get your copy, and help others!
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/be-part-of-the-hearts-of-glass-story-and-mission/x/38415051#
Stay totally awesome!
Stay true to you!
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