Dawsons visit Verdi

Keith, "I just want to tell you what a wonderul evening we had last night with your father. I got Denny and my son-in- law each a "Verdi" book for Christmas and they were so thrilled that we decided to take him out for dinner and have him sign the books.
We really had a great time visiting with him and seeing his shop. last night we all went away smiling and impressed. He is an amazing guy and so talented, smart, and fun. I told my grandson that this is the way to get old.
Barb Dawson.. (Denny's Wife)
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Father Beiting

US Congressman Ben Chandler is reading Verdi

Two weeks ago when Keith met United States Congressman Ben Chandler he added to Chandler's library by giving him a copy of "Verdi" . Two weeks later the congressman returned to Berea for a breakfast. This time he happily agreed to pose with the book and hoped he would get a chance to read it after the campaign. I again reminded Ben of Verdi's lifelong agreement with Democrats. The congressman smiled and said, "Tell your dad he has it right."

Readers in Changsha, China

Comments from China
Keith,
It's so nice of you to send me the part of your father's book. I enjoyed it especially the paragraph you wrote. I had a peculiar feeling when I was reading---so unbelievable---It's your father, I mean, not your brother ,son ,friend, not anyone but your father. I've never read a biography of a senior. The book drove my minds into a far away place and inspired me a lot of imagination. You are so lucky to have such a father that loves your family.
Chen


You know,reading your father's book in this way is different from reading any other books,for I felt I know the author and he is so close. It's the same with the book These Old Hills. Like you have said in that book, he remembered everything so well as if there was a recorder in his mind since he was six years old. I felt even more so when it comes to your father's book. He seems to have taken a recorder with him since he was born. All those names and numbers of years. I know better and in more details about the life the earlier immigrants from Europe had in America.They did take a leap from a continent to another.I think they were really great. Most importantly, they seem to be so close to my life because I know you and they are your family.
Jane

I was reading that book and laughed. Old Mr. Gilbertson called the time he had surgery on his right hand. “Restoring an antique”. He is really optimistic. I can't agree with him more. If we'd like to make a friend, bright person is always the Number 1 choice, right?
Recently, my dad and I have had more communication, through which, I think I get a better understanding to him and we really enjoy it. I guess that's why you like to work together with your dad. You have the same topic now and make efforts together. That kind of feeling is really amazing! I have an idea; maybe the book can be passed through generation to generation as a family gift. What should be changed is to add more stories about the new generation.
Claire

Where is Verdi?

The book is going out all over the world. So far there are about a half a dozen readers in Changsha, China. Hu Juan worked in Ohio this summer and brought back 2 copies of "Verdi". The books are being shared with her roommates and friends. Another three students in Changsha are reading it via Email. I send 2 chapters at a time.
There is one copy in Roa, Norway and it is shared between Ragnild and Maria Oppen. They are the twin sisters that Eric and Matthew enjoyed a wonderful visit with this summer. Verdi wrote them a thank you letter in Norwegian and sent them a signed copy of the book.
So far there are 150+ copies of the book out there across many states.
Each night when I call Dad, his first words are often, "I sold another book today.
The list of states so far is, Wisconsin, Iowa, South Dakota, Montana, Washington, California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Nebraska, Washington, DC, Tennessee,
We are grateful for all of the relatives and friends who have embraced the book and shared their gratitude with Verdi. He keeps saying, "I had no idea how many people would like the book. I thought it would just be family."
Last night I gave a copy to our Congressman Ben Chandler. I pointed out the politics section and the reference to never voting for a non-Democrat. he laughed and said "Your dad sounds like a true Democrat.
maybe Chandler will read the book back in DC and get this mess straighted out after reading a few of the positive words in Verdi.

Great Grandkids reading the book.

Comments about "Verdi"

I read much of Verdi and it is awesome. It is a story of faith, fidelity, family, farming and flying." Father Jim Devorak (at St Joseph Church service)
"He should have added fly fishing." Toov Boys
I can add "Fun." Father Jim

The book arrived a couple of days ago and I’m already halfway through it. Keith, this is a very special project and I so appreciate being able to read it. I have so many fond memories of sitting around your house in Monte and talking with your parents. This is icing on the cake.

All the best,
Joan


Keith, It sounds like you had a great crowd. I'm looking forward to reading the book!! I've always respected your family and this is just one more neat thing you've done together.All the best to you and yours.
Mike