Julie Jo Larson is an author, storycatcher, and public speaker. Her first book “100 Things to Do in Minnesota Northwoods Before You Die” springs forth from Reedy Press in April, 2021.
Her second book “100 Things To Do In Minnesota Before You Die” is scheduled for release in March 2023.
With a walking stick in hand, worn mukluks on her feet, and a never-ending supply of curiosity and wanderlust, Julie Jo travels countless miles across the region in search of unique people, places, and events. She continues a three-decade tradition of wandering and wondering throughout northern Minnesota.
In Search of Minnesota’s Most Unique Attractions
On weekends, Julie Jo explores the Minnesota in search of lost, obscure, and forgotten history. In 2014 she formed “The MsStorians” a women’s history group that tours abandoned cemeteries, century-old buildings, and vanishing communities. She combines both research and field work to create MsStorian Adventures- articles which tell the story behind the adventure. Since 2014, over two dozen MsStorian Adventures have appeared in the Lake Country Journal and other Northwoods publications.
Speaker
Julie Jo is a passionate presenter. Her presentation topics include local and regional history, cemeteries, writing a travel guide during a pandemic, and more. Past presentations were catered to service organizations, writing groups, educational classes, historical societies, book clubs, libraries and graduation ceremonies. She has presented to groups up to 650 people. Contact Julie Jo
Regional Involvement
Julie Jo has served on the Crow Wing County Historical Society Board and the Humphrey Center for American Indian Studies. She is a member of the Crossing Arts Alliance and the Cuyuna Rock, Gem, and Mineral Society. She received a Five Wings Artist Grant in 2017 to explore novel writing.
On weekdays, Julie Jo dons the hat of assistant director of TRIO Student Support Services at Central Lakes College. She is also a licensed social worker.
Living in the Middle of It All
Julie Jo lives in rural Brainerd with her family, three pets, and a flock of chickens. She may be reached at juliejolarsonstorycatcher@gmail.com.
Please visit her website JULIEJOLARSON.COM