THE HISTORY CENTER
Meet the Author Series
Discover the stories behind the stories in The History Center's Author Series. Join talented authors from Linn County and beyond as they share the inspiration behind their work, discuss their writing process, and explore the people, places, and experiences that shaped their books. Our Meet the Author Series is a unique opportunity to connect with local authors and the stories they bring to life.
Admission is $10.00 General Public, $8.00 Members
This program takes place at The History Center (800 2nd Ave SE)
Meet the Author series is sponsored by Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust.
September 1, 2026
Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
Program Starts 6:00 p.m.
Jesse Thoeming
Jesse Thoeming is a writer whose work explores the intersection of humanity, progress, and imagination. Originally from southern Illinois, where he grew up in the shadow of the Gateway Arch, he has lived and worked in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for over two decades. His essays and commentary have appeared in numerous local and regional publications, and his debut novel, The Brown Bottle Squeeze, earned praise for its narrative voice and depth of character. “God Bless You, Mr. Trump” marks the beginning of a bold speculative trilogy set in the near future.
When he’s not writing or traveling the country and world with his wife, Sarah, Jesse finds his balance on open-air trails—hiking, biking, and thinking deeply about where we’ve been—and where we might be going next.
October 6, 2026
Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
Program Starts 6:00 p.m.
Jennifer Fishwald
Jennifer Fishwild released her inaugural YA novel, "Sunflower" in 2023. An education professional and a lifelong learner who resides in Cedar Rapids, Iowa with her family, Jennifer is looking forward to creating new characters and stories that will be informative and thought-provoking for individuals both inside and outside of the young adult demographic. She strives to intentionally create storylines that resonate with young adults as well as characters with whom they can identify during a time in their lives at which many of them are trying to figure out who they are.
As an education professional, Jennifer has had many opportunities to build relationships with young adults she has had the privilege of teaching - many of whom have since grown up and who she now considers friends. She has also had a number of educational experiences that have provided opportunities for travel and research which contributes to her work as an author, as well. In 1999, Jennifer researched the emotional risk and well-being of prostitutes in the Red Light District in Amsterdam, Netherlands and she researched human trafficking in Russia in 2009. Jennifer is also a historian who particularly enjoys researching and studying global revolutions, social movements, and the Cold War.
When she is not supporting students and teachers, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her husband, Doug, her daughter, Isabel, and their Golden Retriever, Cora, as well as with friends and extended family. She also enjoys reading anything she can get her hands on, cooking, baking, watching classic films, and hiking if the weather is not too hot, too cold, too humid or too dry...Unsurprisingly, Jennifer's favorite seasons are spring and fall.