How do we conjure our long-forgotten stories? And how can we recall those details from the past that we thought had vanished?

There’s a technique for that—on Saturday, March 26, author B.J. Hollars will provide a series of generative writing prompts at a Johnson County Library workshop that is sure to spur your memory, bring your past to the present and help you write your life’s story.

The virtual workshop, presented by the Library’s Local Writers group, is one of a three-part program series featuring Hollars, an award-winning author of several books and English professor at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire.

His most recent book “Go West Young Man: A Father and Son Rediscover America on the Oregon Trail” is the story of an eye-opening 2,500-mile road trip with his 6-year-old son Henry.

• Tuesday, March 22: Make Every Mile a Memory: A Reading and Presentation with B.J. and Henry Hollars on “Go West Young Man.”

• Wednesday, March 23: Travel Writing for Dummies: On Rattlesnakes, Wagon Ruts and Making the World Feel Like Home

• Saturday, March 26: The Story of Your Life: Writing Your Forgotten Past Workshop

Looking for more events along these lines? The library loves writers just as much as readers! To support writers at every stage, from a casual hobby to a life’s calling, Johnson County Library has developed a suite of programs, resources, and opportunities to develop your craft and grow your portfolio.

If you are a writer, we want to meet you, read your work and celebrate you in the community. There is even a monthly writing contest with a $200 honorarium!

Visit jocolibrary.org/for-writers for more information about the library’s writing programming and register online for upcoming events and workshops, including the B.J. Hollars events.

All Johnson County Library events will remain virtual through the spring, with many available anytime on Library OnDemand.