Despite the pervasive popularity of digital information and social media, words printed on paper remains a primary platform for communication. This is particularly true for historical information.

In his Words on Paper program, Willmar, MN author Forrest Peterson offers a review of major historical events and a listing of books in the 1950-70 decades that reflected and influenced society. He also touches on the impact of digital communication technology, writing memoirs and publishing resources. Essentially three modules, the program can be adapted to the primary interests of particular audiences.

Attendees will learn about or be reintroduced to major events and issues, and significant novels, memoirs, and non-fiction books in that era that reflected and influenced society. A handout lists 20 such books identified by the Library of Congress as well as other notable books and memoirs.

Major social issues underlying the 1950s post-World War II boom erupted in the more turbulent  1960s. People now in their 60s and 70s were busy as children growing up, perhaps sheltered,  and may have only sporadic memories of the news back then. Younger people today can learn from history and the books that influenced society, and how that relationship continues. People of all ages will gain useful information about writing and publishing. A handout lists writing and publishing resources.

Words on Paper outline:

1. Books that shaped and reflected America 1950-1970
   • Primary events, issues
   • Role of influential literature, book list handout
   • Examples of past influential books relating to issues continuing today:
     • Race: The Invisible Man, Ralph Ellison
     • Environment: Silent Spring, Rachel Carson

1. From Gutenberg to Zuckerberg
   • Digital technology disruption, change
   • Impact on news media
   • Social digital media

• Writing and publishing
  • Memoirs
  • Writing process, craft
  • Publishing