Nov 06, 2025
Bestselling Michigan author and award-winning journalist John U. Bacon returns with The Gales of November, a definitive and deeply human account of the Edmund Fitzgerald’s tragic sinking, arriving on the 50th anniversary of the disaster. Drawing from over 100 interviews with the families and crewmates of the 29 men lost, Bacon brings new clarity and compassion to one of America’s most haunting maritime mysteries. With vivid storytelling and a keen sense of history, The Gales of November captures the drama of the storm that claimed the Mighty Fitz and honors the lives forever changed by its loss.
John U. Bacon has written 14 books, including seven national bestsellers. He has written for dozens of major American publications, appears often on national TV, and won NPR's prize for the nation's best commentary in 2014. He also hosts a popular leadership podcast, Let Them Lead, now in its second season.
In 2009, the University of Michigan students awarded him the Golden Apple Award as their favorite teacher. The Daily Beast called Bacon’s course one of the “ten hottest classes in America.” In 2019, he was appointed a trustee of Michigan Technological University, and delivered the 2022 commencement speech.
John is a decent Spanish speaker, an average hockey player, and a poor piano player, but he still enjoys all three. He lives in Ann Arbor and northern Michigan with his wife and son.
The event begins at 7 p.m. and includes a Q&A and author signing. Please note: signed books are only available at the live event.
About Our Book Sales
One of the most exciting parts of attending our events is getting a signed copy of the author's latest book along with the chance to meet the writer and have them personalize it after the show.
Books sold at NWS events are always priced at 20 percent below retail, so you also get a good deal. The tickets for this event are not bundled with a book.
Performances
Thursday, November 6, 2025 - 7:00pmSustaining Sponsor: The Green Brick Foundation
Season Sponsor: NorthGuard Technology Group
Event Sponsor: TBA
Arts Benefactor: Mary and Ward Bevans Gillett
Media Partner: Interlochen Public Radio
Media Sponsor: Traverse City Record-Eagle
Supporting Sponsors: Image 360, Cambria Suites
Official Airport: Cherry Capital Airport