Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes, but it also has many interesting books. In this series, we are sharing some of the books we like from Minnesota, or Minnesota authors.
We are mapping our literary journey around Minnesota, so you can see all the interesting places where our books are set. Follow our progress on our Google Map, accessible by clicking that link or searching for the title CMLE Reads Across Minnesota!
Glensheen’s Daughter: The Marjorie Congdon Story, by Sharon Darby Hendry.
Have you been to the Glensheen Mansion in Duluth? It’s lovely! During the MLA Annual Conference last October, we had a special event there, touring the building, enjoying dinner in the basement, and a bonfire on the beach. (Go to conferences! There will always be something fun! Listen to our Linking Our Libraries podcast on Conferences.)
“Come see why Glensheen Mansion, perched on the shore of Lake Superior, is the most visited historic home in Minnesota. Our 12-acre estate features gardens, bridges, and the famous 39-room mansion built with remarkable 20th century craftsmanship, telling the story of the Duluth region.”
It is lovely, and a treat for those of us who like historical settings! And for people interested in salacious true crime mysteries – that is also a part of the experience.
From this book: “Two horrific murders shocked the state of Minnesota as the bodies of heiress Elisabeth Congdon and her night nurse, Velma Pietila, were discovered in Glensheen Mansion. Suspicions soon turned to Elisabeth’s beloved adopted daughter, Marjorie, and her insatiable desire for wealth.”
I finished this book the afternoon before our MLA event – just in time! When we went to the mansion that evening, I was able to pass on all sorts of interesting trivia to those walking around with me. (Yes, it’s always fun to be with library people – we all hang out and chat about pop culture and other bits of information. It’s fun!)
This will not be the most intellectual book you have read, but if you want a slightly tabloid true-crime mystery – this is the book for you! (And, if you are headed to Duluth – check it out to be sure you get the backstory!)