April 25, 2026

01:30 pm - 03:00 pm

Reading & Book Signing with Local Author Frank Kelly - April 25th

When he asked about family roots, Frank Kelly was told to let sleeping dogs lie, since his heritage was littered with horse thieves and rascals. In retirement, Frank researched the story of the immigrant who is the basis for this historical novel. The result is An Irish Dream, which follows Michael Patrick Kelly, a man of wealth who experiences loss as the people he loves in his impoverished corner of Ireland are taken away from him and starvation covers the land. Young Michael Patrick is determined to prosper and become a man of substance and prestige while he also pursues romance and friendship as “the great hunger” brings horror to all of Ireland. Drawing from deep historical research and personal family narratives, Kelly brings emotional depth and vivid detail to the struggles and resilience of 19th-century Irish life. Copies of An Irish Dream: Feast and Famine will be available to purchase at the book signing. The book is the first in a trilogy following the Kelly clan. Frank, who lives across from the Muscatine Art Center, and his wife Diane are both dedicated volunteers at the Art Center.