Lower Merion Libraries Hosting Virtual Author Visit

LOWER MERION TOWNSHIP, PA — The Lower Merion Library System is continuing its series of author visits by hosting Kerri Arsenault to discus her new part memoir and part environmental investigation book.

Lower Merion Library System Director David Belanger will discuss Arsenault's new book "Mill Town: Reckoning with What Remains" with her at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8.

The conversation will be held online over Zoom.

Pre-registration is required and can be done online here.

"Mill Town" explored the complex relationship between a small town in Maine where Arsenault grew up and the paper mill that both economically supports the region while creating a toxic environment.

The mill, while providing livelihoods for nearly everyone, also contributed to the destruction of the environment and the decline of the town’s economic, physical, and emotional health in a slow-moving catastrophe, earning the area the nickname "Cancer Valley."

Publisher’s Weekly, in a starred review, reported "Arsenault paints a soul-crushing portrait of a place that’s suffered 'the smell of death and suffering' almost since its creation. This moving and insightful memoir reminds readers that returning home—'the heart of human identity'—is capable of causing great joy and profound disappointment."

The book also received a People’s Pick from People Magazine.

"Mill Town: Reckoning with What Remains" is available in Lower Merion Libraries, and can be purchased at Main Point Books, Children’s Book World, and the Narberth Bookshop.