MORGAN PARK — Four authors will read their unpublished works aloud as part of the "Words By Friends" event set for 7 p.m. June 24 in the Beverly Area Planning Association's community room.
The event is free but the audience gathered at 1987 W. 111th St. in Morgan Park will be asked to make a donation to Erin's Farm in Monee.
The proprietor, Erin Yanz, is among the readers slated to take the stage along with organizer Steve English of Morgan Park. Yanz, a Beverly native, operates the modest farm as a way to sensitize people to animals and nature.
Her stories will reflect this dedication as will the narrative presented by English, who raises chickens in his backyard.
"Her farm is incredible. She is someone who is living her passion, and she's a great author," English said.
English and Yanz be joined onstage by Po O'Connor of Beverly — the voice behind the popular No Wire Hangers, Ever blog. O'Connor is known for her brutally honest, funny and distinctly South Side take on raising children as well as facing adult life without her parents.
O'Connor's mother died in 2002. Her dad died two years later.
Margie Browne Gallagher is a native of the Beverly area who recently moved to the south suburbs. Her writing also focuses on childrearing but with an emphasis on special needs kids.
"I always tell people she is the Irish Erma Bombeck," English said.
English expects audience members to experience a wide range of emotions at "Words By Friends." Relevant topics, such as gender issues and the relationship between humans and animals, will also be on the table.
"People need to hear this stuff," English said. "I think we are all terrified, but I also think we are very, very excited about it."
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