On Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024, Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ) hosted a special book reading event featuring Dr. Sylvia Baer, author of the memoir Building Life: Volume 2. The event began at 11:30 am in the College Center at RCSJ's Gloucester Campus.  

 Dr. Baer, a retired professor and esteemed member of the RCSJ community, read excerpts from her memoir, sharing insights from her life journey. She engaged with attendees in a discussion about the themes explored in her work. Building Life reflects on her diverse family, the various cultures that influenced her, and the significance of building a life that is your own, offering readers an intimate glimpse into Baer's experiences. This second volume continues from her first memoir, Learning Life, which also captures moments that connect with readers from all backgrounds. 

 What started as sharing small excerpts of her life on social media turned into writing a series of memoirs for all of those who connected with Baer's stories. Many of those in attendance were previous students of Baer, which showed her impact outside the classroom. Baer stated, “The greatest compliment I can get is when I write something that speaks to someone else."  

 Baer is also known for her poetry and was named Cape May's first official Poet Laureate. She has impacted the community by creating the city's “Poet-Tree," encouraging others to take a poem they connect with or contribute by leaving behind a poem of their own.   

Close friend of Baer and community artist Linda Robinson shared how moved she was by Baer's literature, especially the poetry she creates: “She writes beautiful, heartwarming poetry. It really resonates with me."  

After the event attendees had the opportunity to purchase copies of the book. Baer also signed books following the reading. She plans to release a third and final memoir as part of the series next year.  

For those who are interested in any of Baer's work, visit https://www.sylviabaer.com/, and for those who wish to learn more about literature and language, visit https://www.rcsj.edu/EducationHumanities ​

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