Author Talk: Robert Goodland

Wisconsin author Robert Goodland will be at the library in person to discuss his new book, Beneath the Surface: A Memoir. Robert, a retired firefighter, paramedic, and trauma survivor, recounts his lifelong efforts to heal from decades of pain.

Growing up as the youngest of four in a fractured family, the author endured the silent weight of child sexual abuse—a trauma that spiraled into addiction and rehab at just seventeen. Sober for over four decades, this raw and unflinching memoir delves into the journey through darkness, from the struggles of a career as a firefighter/paramedic to the brink of death during an ice diving training accident that left the author unconscious beneath the ice.

That harrowing near-drowning became the turning point, leading to a diagnosis of PTSD and the start of a courageous path to healing. This gripping narrative not only recounts a life shaped by profound challenges but also shares the transformative tools and practices that helped confront and heal traumas long buried beneath the surface. A story of resilience, hope, and redemption, this memoir is a testament to the power of facing the past to reclaim the future.

This program is free and open to the public. Please come early, since seating is limited.

You may also like the following events from Columbus Public Library (WI):

• This Tuesday, 24th June, 01:30 pm, Columbus Summer Enrichment Series: David Landau Musical Performance in Columbus
• This Tuesday, 24th June, 06:00 pm, Columbus Summer Enrichment Series: David Landau Musical Performance in Columbus
• This Wednesday, 25th June, 06:00 pm, Adult Craft Night - Paper Roses in Columbus

Also check out other Arts events in Columbus, Literary Art events in Columbus, Sports events in Columbus.