The
National Writers Series is honored to welcome Jocelyn Benson, Michigan’s
Secretary of State and one of the nation’s most courageous defenders of
democracy, to discuss her powerful and inspiring new book, The Purposeful Warrior, an Open Field title from Maria Shriver.
As
Michigan’s chief election official, Benson has overseen some of the most secure
and highest-turnout elections in the state’s history. But her life changed one
snowy night in December 2020 when armed protestors arrived at her home,
threatening her and her young son. Her only crime: certifying a fair and
accurate election. Rather than retreat, Benson stood her ground—and stood up
for truth, democracy, and the rule of law.
In The
Purposeful Warrior, Benson shares the lessons she’s learned throughout her
extraordinary career—from investigating domestic terrorist networks to becoming
the youngest woman to lead a top 100 law school, to running the Boston Marathon
while more than eight months pregnant. With clarity and
conviction, she demonstrates how all of us can stand up to injustice, find
strength in our values, and become warriors for ourselves and for one another.
Drawing
from her own story as well as those of other bold changemakers, Benson shows
that even in moments of fear, frustration, or despair, we have the power to act
with integrity, grit, and grace. Whether we’re confronting bullies, challenging
the status quo, or defending the vulnerable, she reminds us that purposeful
warriors don’t just resist what’s wrong—they fight for what’s right.
Benson
has been praised for her leadership, courage, and commitment to protecting
voting rights and strengthening democracy. The
Purposeful Warrior is her call to action for a more just and compassionate
world, and a roadmap for anyone ready to make a difference.
Join us
for an unforgettable evening with a national leader and changemaker whose story
will leave you inspired to lead with purpose, speak up with courage, and fight
for a better future.
The event
begins at 7 p.m. and includes a Q&A and author signing. Each ticket
includes a hardcover copy of The
Purposeful Warrior (or opt for a two-ticket package with one book). Please
note: signed books are only available at the live event.
Which Ticket Package to Choose?
If you
and a partner or friend are attending together and only need one book to share,
choose our Two-Tickets/One-Book package.
About Our Book Sales
One
of the most exciting parts of attending our events is getting a signed copy of
the author's latest book along with the chance to meet the writer and have them
personalize it after the show.
Each
sale benefits our local partner Horizon Books in downtown Traverse City,
Michigan. The bundled price of National Writers Series books is always 20
percent below retail, so you also get a great deal.
If
you already own the featured book, the one you receive with your ticket makes a
great gift for friends and family. Or you can donate it back to us at the
National Writers Series, and we'll distribute it to libraries and young writers
in Northern Michigan.
We
think a new book is one of the greatest joys of life, and we thank you for
helping us make Traverse City one of the premiere destinations for authors
through our book sales.
Virtual
Option
Even if you can’t make it to the City Opera
House, you can still enjoy National Writers Series events from the comfort of
your own home on event night or later on-demand when it’s more convenient.
Please go to www.nationalwritersseries.org for
ticketing information.