Co-Authors Give Presentation On World War II Book At Brainerd Public Library

After writing a book about Minnesota’s smallest towns, authors Deane and Jill Johnson are now going from library to library to give a presentation on their new book, “Little Minnesota in World War II.” The book tells stories about World War II veterans who died in the line of duty and are from small towns in Minnesota.

“The men were all from very tiny towns and most of the towns have been forgotten; when we could find a family member that could share that with us, their family experience, it becomes very real,” said Jill Johnson.

Deane and Jill traveled all over Minnesota to listen to stories told from family members of the fallen soldiers.

“I think the history of what they did is important and a lot of times you read in the history books about how the battle went overall, but to hear the story on a personal basis just gives you a whole different perspective,” said Deane Johnson.

For Deane and Jill, writing this book and telling the stories of the Minnesota veterans helps preserve important Minnesota small-town history.

“It’s been real affirming not only the men and their families, but for the towns, there’s a real pride in these towns that yes, they sacrificed a lot during the war,” said Jill Johnson.

Deane and Jill Johnson continue touring and giving presentations on their book as they will go to a total of nine libraries by the end of next week.