An Evening with Jocelyn Benson and "The Purposeful Warrior" (Virtual)

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 changemakers, 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 changemaker 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). Please note: signed books are only available at the live event.

Guest Host: TBA

Virtual Ticket plus book (ticket fees not included): $47 Shipped; $39 book-pickup at Horizon Books in Traverse City

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.

Each Virtual Ticket includes a private YouTube link to the event, which begins at 6:50 PM. Virtual audience members can contribute questions to the Q&A through a moderated chat.

Shipping is available anywhere in the continental U.S. by our local bookstore partner Horizon Books of downtown Traverse City, Michigan. Actual costs applied at checkout. Signed copies are only available at the live-event.

Traverse City locals who’d like to read the book in advance of the event may have the option to pick up their copy at Horizon Books. Instructions will be emailed to you after your purchase.

Additional transaction fees are applied at checkout.