In Other Words, Leadership
How a Young Mother's Weekly Letters to Her Governor Helped Both Women Brave the First Pandemic Year
by Shannon A. Mullen
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Pub Date Jun 20 2023 | Archive Date May 17 2023
Steerforth Press | Steerforth
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Description
"A heartfelt and moving story . . . Just as important, it’s also a well-timed lesson in civics." — Richard Russo, author of Empire Falls
Two unforgettable women from opposite poles of power in Maine forge an uplifting bond through good, old-fashioned letter writing that helps them navigate the COVID crisis
Both women bring civility, grace, wit, and wisdom to the challenge of protecting those who depend on them — in other words, leadership
This trip to the “Vacationland” of Maine — where the state motto is I Lead — offers an inspiring tale of civility and purpose, of doing the right thing and not just surviving, but prevailing.
The first woman to serve as governor of Maine, Janet Mills, had been in office a year when COVID-19 reached the United States. The recently-widowed 72-year-old wrote in her journal there is “no playbook for a pandemic” as she imposed unprecedented restrictions on her state.
When early support for the governor’s response curdled to rampant opposition, a young mother named Ashirah Knapp sent a letter of support from a remote homestead in the woods of Maine. Ashirah’s handwritten dispatch detailed how the public health emergency was upending her family’s life and livelihood, and she promised to keep writing “every week until we are through this time” to remind the governor how many Mainers supported her despite the disruption.
Ashirah’s letters, with their simple wisdom and striking penmanship, stood out in a flood of correspondence Governor Mills was receiving that ranged in tone from appreciative to furious. They helped keep her grounded as she made wrenching, often unpopular choices.
Shannon A. Mullen weaves from these two women’s letters and the governor’s journal, which were never intended for publication, an intimate and compelling true story that is a celebration of civility and compassion in the face of rancor and of resolve in the face of adversity.
Advance Praise
“Mullen’s earnest approach will keep readers engaged. Readers will find both governor and homesteader sturdy pandemic companions.”
--Kirkus Reviews
“This is a remarkable book. The story of how Maine governor Janet Mills and constituent Ashirah Knapp, a homesteader with young children, supported each other from a distance through the storms of the coronavirus pandemic, it is far more than just a record of those unsettled years. It captures both history and humanity as it tells the life stories of the two women who faced an unprecedented crisis and how they set a course through it. It is a story of work, worry, art, faith, community, life, and hope. An instant classic.”
--Heather Cox Richardson, author of How the South Won the Civil War
"A heartfelt and moving story . . . Just as important, it’s also a well-timed lesson in civics."
--Richard Russo, author of Empire Falls
"This delightful book tells the compelling, intertwined stories of Governor Janet Mills and a young idealistic Mainer trying to do the right thing -- one for her state and the other for her family -- during a most difficult time, and it is a dramatic reminder that politicians need to do more than win elections and score points for their team; they need to lead."
--Howard Dean, former governor of Vermont
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9781586423681 |
| PRICE | $29.95 (USD) |
| PAGES | 336 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Readwithmills ., Reviewer
"In Other Words, Leadership" by Shannon Mullen is a poignant and timely tale of leadership in the midst of unprecedented challenges. Set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic in the state of Maine, Mullen crafts a heartwarming story that highlights the power of civility, purpose, and resilience in times of adversity.
The book centers around two women: Janet Mills, the first woman to serve as governor of Maine, and Ashirah Knapp, a young mother living in the remote woods of Maine. As Governor Mills faces the daunting task of leading her state through a global pandemic with no playbook to guide her, Knapp sends her heartfelt letters of support from her isolated homestead. Through these letters, Mullen paints a vivid picture of the impact the pandemic has on Knapp's family and their livelihood, and her unwavering determination to stand by the governor's difficult decisions.
What stands out in this book is the theme of civility and compassion. Despite facing opposition and criticism, Governor Mills remains committed to making the right choices for her state. Knapp's letters, with their simple wisdom and striking penmanship, serve as a reminder of the unwavering support that the governor receives, even in the face of difficult decisions. Mullen beautifully portrays the power of empathy, understanding, and mutual respect in leadership, especially during times of crisis.
The book also delves into the concept of resilience. Governor Mills, as a recently-widowed 72-year-old, faces immense challenges and personal loss while leading her state through the pandemic. However, her resolve and determination to do what is best for her constituents is inspiring. Knapp's letters, with her unwavering support, also highlight the resilience of ordinary individuals in the face of unexpected adversity.
Mullen's writing is captivating, drawing readers into the personal lives and experiences of these two remarkable women. The use of Governor Mills' journal entries and Knapp's letters adds an intimate touch to the story, showcasing the human side of leadership and the impact it has on individuals and communities.
"In Other Words, Leadership" is a celebration of leadership that goes beyond mere survival, but strives to make a positive impact in the face of challenges. It is a compelling and inspiring read that underscores the importance of civility, purpose, and resilience in leadership, especially in times of crisis. Mullen's storytelling is masterful, leaving readers with a deep appreciation for the power of empathy, compassion, and determination in leadership. Highly recommended for anyone interested in leadership, resilience, and the human spirit.
