Let’s talk about The Ice on the Lake
Join the UMD Alumni Book Club on Tuesday, August 18, from 7:00 - 8:30 PM (CT) for a virtual discussion of The Ice on the Lake, featuring a conversation with author Alex Messenger.
Alex is a communications specialist at the University of Minnesota Duluth, as well as a photographer, volunteer search-and-rescue operator, and former wilderness guide. His work brings together storytelling, adventure, and communication. He is also the author of The Twenty-Ninth Day (Blackstone, 2019).
Alumni Book Club: The Ice on the Lake
Tuesday, August 18
7:00 - 8:30 PM (CT)
Hosted on Zoom
The Alumni Book Club is free to attend. Participants are responsible for purchasing their own copy of the book.
About the Book
A haunting story of survival and redemption on the frozen expanse of Lake Superior.
The harsh winters of Duluth, Minnesota, don't bother Hugh McLaren. Decades after the death of his wife and estrangement from his children, the only respite from his troubled thoughts comes from ice fishing alone on the windswept expanse of Lake Superior. Out on the ice, Hugh can drop a line in search of monsters of the deep and be free of his own demons.
But when a routine exam turns into a terminal diagnosis, Hugh enters a new spiral of guilt and regret-about the loss of his wife and his own troubled upbringing-making him consider how he might mend his broken relationships with his children. To push aside his internal turmoil, Hugh goes onto the ice to fish during a severe storm, but as the blizzard rages on, he is forced to reckon with worsening conditions and the even colder storm inside himself.
The Ice on the Lake is a novel of resilience and determination-both to survive the fury of nature and to reconcile with the ghosts of the past.
What is the Alumni Book Club?
The Alumni Book Club connects through a live virtual meeting on Zoom. Meetings are guided by UMD faculty, staff, or guest authors who will share their expertise on the topic.
FAQs
What to Expect
Meaningful Conversation with Fellow Bulldogs
- Engaging Discussion: Join fellow alumni for a guided conversation about The Ice on the Lake, led by author and UMD communications specialist Alex Messenger.
- Virtual Connection: Participate from anywhere—this event is hosted live on Zoom.
- Faculty Insight: Explore the book’s themes, characters, and contemporary relevance through an academic lens.
- Casual Atmosphere: No presentations or lectures—just thoughtful discussion and shared perspectives.
- Free to Join: There’s no cost to participate; simply purchase your own copy of The Ice on the Lake before the event.
Questions?
Connect with Us
- Questions about this alumni event? Please contact Alumni Relations at [email protected].