New Memoir Pays Tribute to McKenzie

McKENZIE (November 20) — A newly-published memoir, titled “Little Miss McKenzie: Memories of an Average Girl in an Average but Perfect Small Town,” chronicles the childhood and youth of McKenzie native Jennifer Kee Glass, and, in Glass’ words, pays tribute to her hometown, which she considers “average but perfect.”

“When I first began compiling all the stories of Little Miss McKenzie, I wasn’t even sure where I was headed,” said Glass. “And for the longest [time], the book was nameless. And then, suddenly, these stories took shape, and the title just made perfect sense.”

According to Glass, Little Miss McKenzie is the city itself, and like any young beauty queen, it should be spotlighted and applauded. Glass said people from all aspects of McKenzie life are parts of her stories.

“They really are the reason McKenzie shines so brightly in my eyes,” she said. “Every person mentioned shaped me into the person I am today. That sounds a little corny, but it is very true.”

Glass said the book focuses specifically on the time period of around 1973 until her graduation from McKenzie High School in 1988.

“I have a lot of cultural references that I think define the era, so anyone who grew up during this time period will be able to relate to Little Miss McKenzie’s stories regardless of growing up here or not. But it’s a book for all ages in my opinion,” said Glass.

A book launch for Little Miss McKenzie is Sunday, December 7 at 2 p.m. at the Happy Book Stack bookstore on the corner of Cedar and Broadway in McKenzie.

“I welcome all who have an interest in celebrating this sweet town and the people who have made it so special to join us,” Glass said. “Many have requested that I sign their book copy. I am humbled and honored to do this at the book launch.”

There will be limited copies available for purchase on the date of the book launch, or anyone planning to purchase a copy can go to Amazon.com. The book costs $14.50.