North of Tomboy

By Shelley Irwin

Published August 5, 2025 at 10:53 AM EDT

Julie Swanson talks about her new book.

The book North of Tomboy is based on Michigan author Julie Swanson's growing up on Michigan's rural Leelanau Peninsula in the 70s. Including artwork throughout, themes include meeting people where they are, and unwillingness to accept life the way it can be offered. Julie shares her stories, targeted to middle schoolers.

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Shelley Irwin

Shelley Irwin is the host and producer for The Shelley Irwin Show, a news magazine talk-show format on the local NPR affiliate Monday through Friday. The show, broadcast at 9 a.m., features a wide variety of local and national news makers, plus special features.

See stories by Shelley Irwin