PIPS SPEAK: Essays by Previously Important People is a collection of stand-on-their-own creative nonfiction essays ranging from 500 to 750 words from a group of writers over the age of 60. The essays cover the gamut from reactions to current events to thoughts on family, aging, children and dying, very much in the spirit of Montaigne. Readers see into the world of the writer -- and recognize similarities in their own lives. The prose varies from lyrical to poignant, quizzical to comic, incensed to at peace, reflecting the gamut of emotions being human evokes. The essayists contributing to this collection have lived full professional lives. Rejecting the common societal view of "seniors" as background rather than players in a vibrant community, our writers represent the accumulation of thoughts and reflections obtained through the need to take on creative challenges throughout life. 

The book will appeal to those over sixty or anyone who wants to find their own voice or seek community in isolating times. Rather than one-way communication, essayists invite the reader into conversations on different aspects of life - love, children, challenges, spirituality, rites of passage - from birth to death. Finally, the short format makes writing a challenge and an opportunity, rather than an overwhelming onus, accessible to anybody who dreams of writing. Our thirteen writers have been meeting monthly since 2018, either in person, or via Zoom. We read our essays aloud to the group. During Covid's isolation times our group provided comfort and support to each other. We have developed a deep sense of community and connection thorough our writing and sharing.

The three presenters are:

Jack Williamson retired as a Chaplain in the U. S. Air Force after 24 years of service. He co-authored the book, Divorce: Six Ways to Get Through the Bad Times... for Good. He, along with Sarah Massey-Warren, piloted the first Intergenerational Writing Course at the University of Colorado. He is the grateful grandfather of two remarkable grandsons, both college students.

Beth Shaw is retired and lives in Boulder, Colorado. She taught literature at the college level, including assignments in China and Togo, West Africa. She was an international student advisor for twenty years and has done writing for international education publications.

Susan Josephs is an educator, consultant, curriculum developer, and mother, grandmother, and pet lover. A native New Yorker, she and her husband live in Boulder, Colorado. Her teacher and parent guides are available at Hoopoe Books, www.hoopoebooks.com Her essay "More Choices For Wade" appears in From Dubs to Marbles.