Listening to New England with Mel Allen

Long time Yankee editor Mel Allen is coming to Wellesley Free Library to discuss his new book, “Here in New England: Unforgettable Stories of People, Places, and Memories That Connect Us All”. He will take the audience through the early days of Yankee Magazine to the stories in his new book.

From the time Mel Allen published his first story in Yankee in 1979 to the day he retired in 2025 as the fifth editor in the magazine’s storied 90-year history, his work – both as editor and author – has captured New England’s unique sense of place and the people who call it home. His new collection tells stories of people overcoming obstacles, helping neighbors, and pulling together as a community when all seems lost, conveying a common humanity that has always been part of our landscape. Join Mel for a night of stories you won’t want to miss!

Stick around after the discussion for a Q&A and book signing!

Mel became Yankee’s fifth editor in the summer of 2006, after previous roles as senior editor and executive editor. In 2018, he was inducted into the Folio Magazine Hall of Fame for editorial excellence. Mel has taught magazine writing and creative nonfiction for the past 25 years, divided between the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and MFA Bay Path. His previous book is A Coach’s Letter to His Son. He lives and writes in New Hampshire.

Tuesday, July 7

7:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Wakelin Room

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Sponsored by the Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries