5 Hudson Valley Books to Read This Month | January 2025 | Books & Authors | Hudson Valley
Love, Art, and Legacy: A New Book Chronicles the Trailblazing Lives of Two Milwaukee Artists
Table of Contents
- Love, Art, and Legacy: A New Book Chronicles the Trailblazing Lives of Two Milwaukee Artists
- Saugerties in Verse: Local Poet Captures Town’s Soul in New Collection
- Capturing Cold Spring’s Soul: New Book Celebrates Hudson Valley Village
- Local Author Explores childhood Memories and Adult Reflections in New Collection
- Olive: A Catskills Town Steeped in History and Natural Beauty
- Love, Art, and Legacy: A New Book Chronicles Milwaukee’s Artistic Pioneers
Milwaukee, WI – A new book sheds light on the remarkable lives and enduring legacy of two pioneering artists who shaped Milwaukee’s cultural landscape in the early 20th century. “As Ever,Miriam,” by faythe Levine,delves into the intertwined personal and professional journeys of Charlotte Partridge and miriam Frink,whose love story unfolded against the backdrop of a burgeoning art scene.
Levine, archivist at Women’s Studio Workshop, spent years meticulously combing through correspondence, photographs, and archived materials to paint a vivid portrait of this exceptional couple.
Their story began in 1915 when Partridge, head of the Fine Arts Department at Milwaukee Downer College, and Frink, an English professor, crossed paths. Their shared passion for art and education blossomed into a deep and enduring love. together, they co-founded the Layton School of Art in 1920, a groundbreaking institution that woudl become a cornerstone of Milwaukee’s artistic community.For 34 years, Partridge and Frink led the Layton School, nurturing generations of artists and fostering a vibrant creative habitat. Their commitment to innovation and inclusivity made the school a beacon of artistic expression, attracting students from diverse backgrounds and paving the way for future generations of artists.
“As Ever, Miriam” not only celebrates the artistic achievements of partridge and Frink but also illuminates their groundbreaking love story. In a time when same-sex relationships were largely hidden from public view, their bond defied societal norms and served as a testament to the power of love and acceptance.
Levine’s meticulously researched and engagingly written narrative brings their story to life, offering readers a glimpse into the hearts and minds of two remarkable women who left an indelible mark on Milwaukee’s cultural history.
Faythe Levine
OK Stamp Press, 2024, $25
Saugerties in Verse: Local Poet Captures Town’s Soul in New Collection
Saugerties, NY – The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, forcing communities to confront a new reality. For Ulster County poet Will Nixon,the lockdown brought a profound sense of loss as his beloved Saugerties seemed to fade into a shadow of its vibrant self. This experience sparked a creative outpouring,resulting in “If Not in Heaven,Then in Saugerties: A Town Portrait in Poems,” a poignant collection that captures the essence of this Hudson Valley town.Nixon’s poems delve into the heart of Saugerties, exploring its characters, landscapes, and unique ambience. The book is more than just a collection of verses; it’s a multimedia experience.Each poem is accompanied by the story that inspired it, offering readers a deeper understanding of Nixon’s creative process. Adding another layer of intimacy are portraits by fellow Saugerties resident Joanne Pagano Weber, visually bringing the town and its people to life.
“If Not in Heaven, Then in Saugerties” is a testament to the power of art to connect us during times of isolation.It’s a love letter to a community, a celebration of its resilience, and a reminder of the beauty that can be found even in the darkest of times.
Capturing Cold Spring’s Soul: New Book Celebrates Hudson Valley Village
Cold Spring, NY – The charming village of Cold Spring, nestled in the heart of the Hudson Highlands, has long captivated visitors with its picturesque Main Street, stunning natural beauty, and unique blend of history and modernity. Now, a new coffee table book, “Cold Spring,” by local photographers Alissa and Will Malnati, offers a captivating glimpse into the soul of this beloved community.
Featuring 50 evocative black-and-white images, the book transports readers to the heart of Cold Spring. from the historic architecture lining Main Street to the vibrant farmlands and forests that surround it, the malnatis capture the village’s essence with stunning clarity.”We wanted to showcase the unique spirit of Cold Spring,” said Alissa Malnati. “The village has a magical quality, a sense of timelessness that we tried to convey through our photographs.”
The book’s images are not just aesthetically pleasing; they tell a story. They capture the daily life of Cold Spring residents, the bustling energy of its shops and restaurants, and the serene beauty of its natural surroundings.
“Cold Spring” is more than just a collection of photographs; it’s a love letter to a special place. It’s a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever been captivated by the charm of the Hudson Valley.—coldspringnyalissaandwillmalnati_1.webp?cb=1735660297″ alt=”5 Local Books to Read This month | January 2025″ width=”250″ height=”318″ loading=”lazy”/>
“cold Spring” is available for purchase at local bookstores and online.
High Falls, NY - Tina Barry, a writer from High Falls, NY, invites readers on a poignant journey through memory and inventiveness in her new collection, “AIM Higher.” This captivating work, featuring 40 hybrid poems and micro fictions, is interwoven with eight interpretive images by Stone Ridge artist Kristin Flynn, creating a multi-sensory experience for the reader.
Barry’s lyrical prose delves into the mysteries of the mid-20th century adult world as seen through the eyes of a child and the woman she becomes. “AIM Higher” renders the resonant moments that linger in our minds as we age, presented in a diary-like series of observations and adventures shared between the speaker and her closest confidante.
The collection’s unique blend of memoir and imagination allows readers to connect with worldwide themes of childhood wonder,the complexities of growing up,and the enduring power of memory.
“AIM higher” is available for purchase now for $24.
Olive: A Catskills Town Steeped in History and Natural Beauty
A new book by local archivist Melissa mchugh offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history of Olive, New York, a town nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains.
Olive, New York, is more than just a picturesque town in the Catskills. It’s a place where rugged beauty meets a resilient spirit, a testament to the enduring power of community. In her new book, “Olive,” Melissa McHugh, archivist and director of the Olive Free Library, unveils the captivating story of this unique town through a compelling blend of historical images and insightful prose.
McHugh paints a vivid picture of Olive’s evolution, from its early days as a challenging frontier settlement to its transformation into a haven for urbanites seeking respite and fresh air. She highlights the indomitable spirit of the early pioneers who carved a life from the rocky terrain, harnessing the resources of the forests and flowing waters to build a thriving community.
“Olive is quintessential catskills—a place of fresh breezes and epic prettiness,” writes McHugh. “It’s a challenging place to settle,where indefatigable pioneers took on the challenge of extracting a living from the rocky soils,forest,and flowing waters and built a community that would draw many hundreds of urbanites in search of peace and fresh air and,later,a water source for their ever-thirsty millions.”
Through carefully curated photographs, McHugh transports readers back in time, allowing them to witness the town’s growth and transformation firsthand. From images of bustling logging camps and early homesteads to snapshots of community gatherings and local landmarks, the book offers a captivating visual journey through olive’s past.
“olive” is more than just a historical account; it’s a celebration of the town’s enduring spirit and the people who have shaped its identity. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the Catskills,the allure of small-town America,or simply the captivating stories that lie hidden within our communities.
Love, Art, and Legacy: A New Book Chronicles Milwaukee’s Artistic Pioneers
milwaukee, WI – A new book sheds light on the remarkable lives and enduring legacy of two pioneering artists who shaped Milwaukee’s cultural landscape in the early 20th century. “As Ever, Miriam,” by faythe Levine, delves into the intertwined personal and professional journeys of Charlotte Partridge and Miriam Frink, whose love story unfolded against the backdrop of a burgeoning art scene.
Levine, archivist at Women’s Studio Workshop, spent years meticulously combing through correspondence, photographs, and archived materials to paint a vivid portrait of this extraordinary couple.
Their story began in 1915 when Partridge, head of the Fine Arts Department at Milwaukee downer College, and Frink, an English professor, crossed paths. their shared passion for art and education blossomed into a deep and enduring love. Together,they co-founded the Layton School of Art in 1920,a groundbreaking institution that would become a cornerstone of Milwaukee’s artistic community.For 34 years, Partridge and Frink led the Layton School, nurturing generations of artists and fostering a vibrant creative habitat. Their commitment to innovation and inclusivity made the school a beacon of artistic expression, attracting students from diverse backgrounds and paving the way for future generations of artists.
“As Ever,Miriam” not only celebrates the artistic achievements of Partridge and Frink but also illuminates their groundbreaking love story. In a time when same-sex relationships were largely hidden from public view, their bond defied societal norms and served as a testament to the power of love and acceptance.
Levine’s meticulously researched and engagingly written narrative brings their story to life, offering readers a glimpse into the hearts and minds of two remarkable women who left an indelible mark on Milwaukee’s cultural history.
or even a beacon for future generations to be filled with such stunning beauty.
Saugerties in Verse: Local Poet Captures Town’s Soul in New Collection
Saugerties, NY – The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, forcing communities to confront a new reality. For Ulster County poet Will Nixon,the lockdown brought a profound sense of loss as his beloved Saugerties seemed to fade into a shadow of its vibrant self. This experience sparked a creative outpouring,resulting in “If Not in Heaven,Then in Saugerties: A Town portrait in Poems,” a poignant collection that captures the essence of this Hudson Valley town.Nixon’s poems delve into the heart of Saugerties, exploring its characters, landscapes, and unique ambience. The book is more than just a collection of verses; its a multimedia experience.Each poem is accompanied by the story that inspired it, offering readers a deeper understanding of Nixon’s creative process. Adding another layer of intimacy are portraits by fellow Saugerties resident joanne Pagano Weber, visually bringing the town and its people to life.
“If not in Heaven, Then in Saugerties” is a testament to the power of art to connect us during times of isolation.It’s a love letter to a community, a festivity of its resilience, and a reminder of the beauty that can be found even in the darkest of times.
Capturing Cold Spring’s Soul: New Book Celebrates Hudson Valley Village
Cold Spring, NY - the charming village of Cold Spring, nestled in the heart of the Hudson Highlands, has long captivated visitors with its picturesque Main Street, stunning natural beauty, and unique blend of history and modernity. Now, a new coffee table book, “Cold Spring,” by local photographers Alissa and Will Malnati, offers a captivating glimpse into the soul of this beloved community.
Featuring 50 evocative black-and-white images, the book transports readers to the heart of Cold Spring. From the historic architecture lining Main Street to the vibrant farmlands and forests that surround it,the Malnatis capture the village’s essence with stunning clarity.”We wanted to showcase the unique spirit of Cold Spring,” said Alissa Malnati. “The village has a magical quality, a sense of timelessness that we tried to convey through our photographs.”
The book’s images are not just aesthetically pleasing; they tell a story. They capture the daily life of Cold Spring residents, the bustling energy of its shops and restaurants, and the serene beauty of its natural surroundings.
“Cold Spring” is more than just a collection of photographs; it’s a love letter to a special place. It’s a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever been captivated by the charm of the Hudson Valley.

Faythe Levine is an archivist at Women’s Studio Workshop. You can learn more about her and her work on her website: [Insert website link here]
