Local author to talk about lobstering

Author and conservationist Sandra Staples-Bortner, who lives in Elochoman Valley, will be giving a talk about her book, "Finest Kind: Tales of a Brant Rock Lobsterman" on Friday, June 13 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the Pioneer Community Center (125 Columbia St.). This event, just days before Father's Day, is hosted by Cathlamet Public Library at no charge. All are welcome to attend.

Sandra's book honors the life of her father, Donal Staples, a New England lobsterman. Growing up during the Depression, he learned boating skills at a young age, put his skills to work as a teenage sailor in WWII, and relied on them daily during his work as a lobsterman.

"Finest Kind" is a very personal story from Sandra about her father, their fishing village of Brant Rock, and its community of lobstermen. This book will be a pleasure to read for those fascinated with the sea, the lives of commercial fishermen, and personal accounts of the Battle of Okinawa.

Sandra recalls how her father had always enjoyed sharing his remarkable stories, but as he aged his reflections took on new meaning for himself and his listeners. She had a strong desire to reassure him that his life's challenges and achievements would not be forgotten, while also realizing that one day she would miss hearing his stories. What began as a small project to record his "greatest hits" gradually morphed into the larger commitment to write his full biography. Sandra's goal was for others to enjoy reading about life as a lobsterman in coastal New England, and gain an understanding of our American past.

More could be shared here about this wonderful book written by Sandra; but instead, let's leave this full, robust, and moving story for the upcoming Author's Talk on June 13. Sandra's book will be available at the event for purchase and author signings.