You have likely read about Brad Ryan and his 96-year-old grandmother, Joy. They have not only been featured in articles locally, but they have also graced the pages of Reader’s Digest and People Magazine. Their powerful story of reconnecting after being estranged and establishing a bond that was built while visiting America’s beautiful 63 National Parks has inspired many across the country and the world. They have traveled more than 100,000 miles and during that time have amassed memories not only of the places they have visited but of meaningful conversations and silly moments like car ride sing-alongs.
Even with a viral social media presence and numerous appearances on television and in print, Brad and Joy’s story had never been told like it is in Brad’s new book, Grandma Joy and Me: A Journey of Healing, One National Park at a Time, published by Simon & Schuster. The book was released earlier this month, and a tour was announced to promote the book.
As Duncan Falls natives, the duo started in their hometown before heading out on a nationwide book tour. The MCLS Duncan Falls/Philo Branch Library hosted a book signing event on June 12. They greeted a long line of neighbors and old and new friends, posed for selfies, and signed copies of the new book.
The tour is already underway. The John McIntire Library in Zanesville hosted an event on June 13, and on June 18, they visited Columbus, and three days after, Shaker Heights, before leaving Ohio for stops in Michigan, Illinois, Pennsylvania, back to Ohio, then to Maryland and Connecticut. And that is all in June since the mid-month release! 19 Stops are on the schedule for July and 10 for August so far. For additional upcoming appearances, be sure to visit, www.simonandschuster.com.
Copies of Grandma Joy and Me: A Journey of Healing, One National Park at a Time can be purchased at www.simonandschuster.com, Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Books A Million, and other retailers. Be sure to check with your favorite independent bookstore!
Stay up-to-date with all of Brad and Grandma Joy’s adventures by following them on Facebook or Instagram @grandmajoysroadtrip.
