June 03, 2025
The National Writers Series is honored to welcome Jocelyn Benson, Michigan’s Secretary of State and one of the nation’s most courageous defenders of democracy, to discuss her powerful and inspiring new book, The Purposeful Warrior, an Open Field title from Maria Shriver.
As Michigan’s chief election official, Benson has overseen some of the most secure and highest-turnout elections in the state’s history. But her life changed one snowy night in December 2020 when armed protestors arrived at her home, threatening her and her young son. Her only crime: certifying a fair and accurate election. Rather than retreat, Benson stood her ground—and stood up for truth, democracy, and the rule of law.
In The Purposeful Warrior, Benson shares the lessons she’s learned throughout her extraordinary career—from investigating domestic terrorist networks to becoming the youngest woman to lead a top 100 law school, to running the Boston Marathon while more than eight months pregnant. With clarity and conviction, she demonstrates how all of us can stand up to injustice, find strength in our values, and become warriors for ourselves and for one another.
Drawing from her own story as well as those of other bold change-makers, Benson shows that even in moments of fear, frustration, or despair, we have the power to act with integrity, grit, and grace. Whether we’re confronting bullies, challenging the status quo, or defending the vulnerable, she reminds us that purposeful warriors don’t just resist what’s wrong—they fight for what’s right.
Benson has been praised for her leadership, courage, and commitment to protecting voting rights and strengthening democracy. The Purposeful Warrior is her call to action for a more just and compassionate world, and a roadmap for anyone ready to make a difference.
Join us for an unforgettable evening with a national leader and change-maker whose story will leave you inspired to lead with purpose, speak up with courage, and fight for a better future.
The event begins at 7 p.m. and includes a Q&A and author signing. Each ticket includes a hardcover copy of The Purposeful Warrior (or opt for a two-ticket package with one book). For more than one two-ticket/one-book option, please call the box office. Please note: signed books are only available at the live event.
Which Ticket Package to Choose?
If you and a partner or friend are attending together and only need one book to share, choose our Two-Tickets/One-Book package.
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.
Each sale benefits our local partner Horizon Books in downtown Traverse City, Michigan. The bundled price of National Writers Series books is always 20 percent below retail, so you also get a great deal.
If you already own the featured book, the one you receive with your ticket makes a great gift for friends and family. Or you can donate it back to us at the National Writers Series, and we'll distribute it to libraries and young writers in Northern Michigan.
We think a new book is one of the greatest joys of life, and we thank you for helping us make Traverse City one of the premiere destinations for authors through our book sales.
Virtual Option
Even if you can’t make it to the City Opera House, you can still enjoy National Writers Series events from the comfort of your own home on event night or later on-demand when it’s more convenient. Please go to www.nationalwritersseries.org for ticketing information.
Admission
Tickets available to Friends of the NWS on 4/22 and to the public on 4/25
Performances
Tuesday, June 3, 2025 - 7:00pmSustaining Sponsor: The Green Brick Foundation
Season Sponsor: NorthGuard Technology Group
Event Sponsor: TBD
Arts Benefactor: Mary and Ward Gillett
Bookstore Partner: Horizon Books
Media Partner: Interlochen Public Radio
Media Sponsor: Traverse City Record-Eagle
Supporting Sponsors: Image 360, Cambria Suites
Official Airport: Cherry Capital Airport