Author Talk: Katherine Fennelly, “An Unlikely Biographer: Researching the Life of a Grandfather I Barely Knew.

Author Katherine Fennelly will give a presentation “An Unlikely Biographer: Researching the Life of a Grandfather I Barely Knew.” Why do people keep deep secrets about their lives and ancestry? In her book “Family Declassified” the author delves into the remarkable life of her maternal grandfather, a Jewish Hungarian immigrant who arrived in the United States 100 years ago. After years of reviewing government records, conducting personal interviews and delving into family genealogy, Fennelly pieced together the life of a man who hid his Jewish identity, worked as a spy for the OSS during WWII, and became a chef and author. Fennelly will share her fascinating story examining the nature of family myths and presenting the gripping tale of a man whose life was shaped by some of the most extraordinary events of the 20th century. The book talk and reading will be followed by Q&A.  Books will be available for purchase and signing by the author before and after the event.  Minneapolis Central Library, 300 Nicollet Mall. Program held in Pohlad Hall on the skyway level.