The Story
“If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” — Toni Morrison
Meet the Founder
Hi! I’m Amber. I’m a writer, a freelance nonprofit fundraising consultant and a passionate advocate for families, children and communities.
I am currently writing a memoir about my family’s struggle through the Farm Crisis of the 1980’s. In an effort to recover their financial losses and their dignity, my parents joined a cult that sold soap. That cult was called Amway. Our family faced some serious challenges and it is my honor and duty to tell those stories.
I am a first-generation college student, graduating with a BA in journalism from Iowa State University and a Masters in Communication, Public Policy and Advocacy from Drake University.
In 2018, I ran for Iowa Senate in a closely watched race against the top-ranking Republican in the legislature. I didn’t win but I learned a lot and I was inspired by the voters of my district to keep telling the stories of the underdogs, the forgotten folks, the overlooked and the impoverished.
The Iowa Writers and Readers Weekend
As I have worked through the process of bringing this book into the world, I have discovered a few things:
1) Writing can be a very lonely business. I love to write but I’m an extrovert so I prefer to write with friends.
2) Writing can be the last thing on my to-do list. I’m a busy mom and a working professional. I need to put writing time on my calendar.
3) Book people are the best people. Whether you love to read or love to write or love both, you will find your vibe at the Iowa Writers and Readers Weekend — and you will make a few new friends, too!
And with that, the Iowa Readers and Writer’s Weekend was born…
Why choose Perry, Iowa?
Great question! When I first began to dream of an event like this, I wanted to choose a place that was within a short drive of the Des Moines metro, a place that would make it easy to slip away for a weekend. I wanted a small community where our tourism dollars would have a big impact and a community with an independent bookstore. Most importantly, I wanted a unique, comfortable and inspiring venue with all the amenities to make it the best event possible.
The Hotel Pattee is an award-winning national treasure; a 100+ year old, fully restored boutique hotel with uniquely decorated sleeping rooms, a full onsite restaurant, coffee shop, library, art museum and more.
Across the street from the Hotel Pattee are the original Carnegie Library and the Perry Public Library, both beautiful spaces full of art, books and space to spread out.
Surrounding the hotel is a vibrant uptown community of businesses including art galleries, gift shops, cafes and pubs, and a local independent bookstore.
When you add it all up, Perry is the perfect place for a retreat for Writers and Readers!
I can’t wait to see you there!
