Tags
authentic, Great Lakes, Lake Michigan, memoir, Michigan, petoskeys, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
When I have the privilege of meeting readers of Memory Lake, they are surprised to learn how much of the novel is true. “In real life there is another Nancy, a Christie, Lori, Tori, Susie, Cindy, Sarah, and Mary?”, they ask. Yes, I reply, supposing they are an e-reader, because it is easy to miss the picture on page 3.
“My daughter’s name is KT, her best friends are Angela and Katie, my sister’s name is Susan, and the camp really exists though I changed its name,” I say with a genuine smile, because the honor of writing about them still lingers. ”Water spouts often form over Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes are huge.” Few readers question the validity of the rest of the novel because its coming-of-age conflict and character interactions speak to the human experience. We all need to overcome fear. We all need to learn that putting on a smile, especially when we least feel like it, leads to real joy.
Whether you devour Memory Lake over a week-end, *”like an irresistible box of candy”, or deliberately spread it out, because like camp, *”you don’t want it to end”, please know it is 99% true. The 1% is to keep the story flowing and to protect the sanctity of locations.
* Quotes from reviews.



Nancy, I love the look on your face when you talk about the book and your memories. You are wonderful!
Thank you! It’s fun to have met a fellow blogger in real life. You are wonderful, as well as your cooking.
http://lauralovinglife.org/2013/01/20/pavlova-with-berry-compote/
Thank you!! Have a great day!
Memory Lake is a gentle reminder of our so many summers of our “Heaven on Earth, security and life long friends.” Thank youNancy… and yes, seeing a water spout approaching is something you will never forget.
Thank you Shane for sharing and validating our memories.
I love the rocks! I collect small smooth rocks form every beach we’ve been to….I feel like they have such a story to tell…I enjoy your writing Nancy! Thank you!
I agree. Every time I go to the beach I leave with at least one rock in my pocket. It is impossible not to! Thanks for leaving a comment.