Life lessons from the Lions: Reading Series welcomes author Joel Walkowski

Jackson College’s Liberal Arts department will kick off its JC Reading Series with author Joel Walkowski at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at the Bert Walker Hall, Center for Innovation (Sandbox).

Walkowski will read from and discuss his recently published memoir, “Honolulu Blues: How Loving a Losing Football Team Created a Winning Man.” The book combines Detroit Lions history with memoir, literary nonfiction and self-help as Walkowski explores themes of men’s mental health, addiction, resilience, identity, failure and personal growth.

Using Detroit sports fandom as a lens, Walkowski examines how a lifelong connection to a losing football team can offer unexpected lessons about perseverance and becoming a better version of oneself. While the book addresses serious topics, it also uses humor and the shared experience of sports fandom to tell its story.

The reading and discussion will offer attendees an opportunity to hear directly from Walkowski about his writing and the personal experiences behind the book.

The event is free and open to students, employees, and community members. Refreshments and snacks will be available.