2:00-3:30pm

Register Here (admission is free)

Willard Public Library and the Indiana Author Awards are excited to host author and journalist Steve Beaven for an engaging discussion of his critically acclaimed book, We Will Rise: A True Story of Tragedy and Resurrection in the American Heartland. 

We Will Rise tells the powerful story of the 1977 plane crash that claimed the lives of the University of Evansville basketball team and how the community came together to heal and rebuild in the aftermath of the tragedy. Beaven's heartfelt and thorough account has resonated with readers both locally and across the country, offering a compelling narrative of loss, resilience, and hope.

Following the presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with the author. A book signing will follow, with copies of We Will Rise available for purchase.

About the Book: The inspiring true story of the tragic loss and triumphant resurrection of a basketball team and its coach at the heart of a small Indiana town.

By 1977 the University of Evansville's Purple Aces basketball team had won five small-college national championships. With a charismatic young coach and a freshman phenom, this small Indiana city hoped to see its team shine in the national spotlight. Then, on a foggy night, after just four games, the plane carrying the team and its coach crashed after takeoff, killing everyone on board.

The tragedy seemed insurmountable, a devastating blow to the identity of a fading factory town. But, with the support of a city in mourning, ambitious new coach Dick Walters promised to rebuild the cherished institution. Assembling a team of castoffs, walk-ons, and overachievers, Walters restored the legacy of the team and its fans. Against all odds, his young men made history.

A tribute to those who were lost, and to those who carried on, We Will Rise is the rich and powerful story of an underdog team and its fans and the spirit of a resilient community.

Click here to purchase you copy in advance!

About the Author: Steve Beaven is an Evansville, Indiana native and a former staff writer at The Oregonian. His work has appeared in The New York Times and elsewhere. He lives in Portland with his wife and two sons.