Name: The Stories We Carry: Writer Colum McCann in Conversation with Michigan Public's April Baer
Start: 2026-09-30
End: 2026-09-30

The [Ann Arbor Sports Commission](https://www.annarbor.org/sports-commission/ "Ann Arbor Sports Commission") works diligently to improve the quality of life through sports for all of Washtenaw County. The [Ann Arbor area](https://www.annarbor.org/ "Ann Arbor area") attracts both sports enthusiasts and participants alike. Thanks to its [easy accessibility](https://www.annarbor.org/plan/getting-here-getting-around/ "easy accessibility"), [wide range of facilities](https://www.annarbor.org/sports-commission/facilities-venues/ "wide range of facilities") available and variety of [dining](https://www.annarbor.org/foodanddrink/ "dining") & [entertainment](https://www.annarbor.org/things-to-do/ "entertainment") options, the Ann Arbor area is a favorite of sporting event organizations. The area has a rich sporting culture seeding in the history of two Division 1 athletic programs ([University of Michigan](https://www.annarbor.org/university-of-michigan/ "University of Michigan") and Eastern Michigan University) and several other small institutions. The Ann Arbor Sports was formed to attract amateur sporting events to the Ann Arbor region by assisting organizers every step of the way.

Ann Arbor is a dynamic mix of energy and charm—a bustling university town, a [foodie’s paradise](https://www.annarbor.org/foodanddrink/ "foodie's paradise"), and a cutting-edge tech hub, all wrapped in a [walkable downtown](https://www.annarbor.org/things-to-do/downtown/ "walkable downtown") bursting with [world-class arts and culture](https://www.annarbor.org/things-to-do/arts-culture/ "world-class arts and culture"). Located in Michigan’s southeast Lower Peninsula, Ann Arbor is the heartbeat of a vibrant network of [communities across Washtenaw County](https://www.annarbor.org/surrounding-destinations/ "communities across Washtenaw County"). With its creative spirit, diverse flavors, and unique neighborhoods, Ann Arbor shines as a exciting oasis.

Ann Arbor Sports Commission

Novelist Colum McCann joins Michigan Public's April Baer for a conversation on storytelling as an act of empathy and why listening matters now more than ever.  
  
Stories have the power not only to entertain or inform, but to help us imagine lives beyond our own. In this special Jill S. Harris Memorial Lecture, internationally acclaimed novelist Colum McCann joins Michigan Public's April Baer for a conversation about storytelling as an act of empathy, curiosity, and human connection. Drawing on McCann's celebrated fiction and his work as co-founder of Narrative 4, the discussion will explore how stories invite us to listen more deeply, understand one another across differences, and expand our sense of what it means to be human. At a time when genuine listening can feel increasingly rare, this conversation will consider the unique role that literature and storytelling can play in helping us encounter one another with greater openness, compassion, and imagination.  
  
Join us after the conversation for a Community Story Exchange led by Narrative 4 at 7pm! Registration required. More details at https://events.umich.edu/event/149899.

The Stories We Carry: Writer Colum McCann in Conversation with Michigan Public's April Baer

Welcome to Bell Tower Hotel, the perfect choice for travelers to Ann Arbor, Michigan. Located at 300 S Thayer St, our hotel offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and affordability. Our spacious guest rooms are equipped with luxurious furnishings and modern amenities, including free high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and a complimentary continental breakfast. Enjoy easy access to the University of Michigan campus, downtown Ann Arbor, and many local attractions. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Bell Tower Hotel offers something for everyone. 

Bell Tower Hotel

Nestled in the heart of the University of Michigan campus, The Inn at the Michigan League offers a charming and convenient stay for visitors to Ann Arbor. This boutique hotel provides a unique blend of historic elegance and modern comfort. Guests will appreciate the variety of well-appointed rooms designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers. While staying at the Inn, enjoy easy access to major university attractions, including the Art Museum and the "Big House" stadium, making it an ideal choice for alumni, visiting scholars, and sports fans alike.

Business travelers will find the Inn’s proximity to the university and downtown Ann Arbor particularly advantageous, with several meeting and event spaces available within the historic Michigan League building. Although there is no on-site restaurant, guests are just steps away from diverse dining options and vibrant nightlife in the surrounding area.

Families and couples can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming campus and take advantage of the close proximity to cultural landmarks and picturesque parks. The hotel's welcoming ambiance and personalized service ensure a memorable stay for all guests. While specific amenities such as pet accommodations or accessibility services aren’t detailed, the hotel's staff is always on hand to assist with any special requests or guidance exploring the local area. Discover the perfect mix of academic charm and inviting comfort at The Inn at the Michigan League, making it an excellent choice for your stay in Ann Arbor. 

The Inn at the Michigan League

Graduate Ann Arbor is a modern hotel located in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor. Boasting stylishly appointed guest rooms and suites, a vibrant lobby bar, and a selection of top-notch amenities, Graduate Ann Arbor provides a unique experience for business and leisure travelers alike. With its convenient location just steps away from exciting restaurants and nightlife, it is the perfect place to stay when exploring all that Ann Arbor has to offer. 

Graduate Ann Arbor

Discover the welcoming charm of the Ann Arbor Bed & Breakfast Inn @ Rackham Gardens, conveniently nestled at 921 E Huron St. Situated in the heart of Ann Arbor, this inn offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal retreat for visitors looking to explore the vibrant local scene.

Guests are invited to unwind in uniquely decorated rooms that provide a cozy, home-away-from-home experience. Each room features essential amenities aimed at delivering a comfortable stay. Relax in the lush setting with views of the scenic Rackham Gardens, perfect for guests who appreciate natural beauty and tranquility.

Business travelers and vacationers alike will appreciate the inn's strategic location, placing them within easy reach of local attractions such as the University of Michigan campus and the bustling downtown area, known for its diverse dining and shopping options. The inn provides complimentary WiFi to ensure guests can stay connected with ease.

The Ann Arbor Bed & Breakfast Inn offers a complimentary breakfast to start your day right, allowing guests to enjoy a fresh and satisfying meal. With an emphasis on personal service and a friendly atmosphere, this inn strives to make each guest's stay memorable.

Ideal for tourists, couples, and solo travelers, the Ann Arbor Bed & Breakfast Inn @ Rackham Gardens is a perfect choice for those seeking a welcoming stay in a prime location, with the authenticity of a local experience. 

Ann Arbor Bed & Breakfast Inn @ Rackham Gardens

Welcome to Exhibit A2 Hotel, your premier destination for comfort and convenience in the heart of Downtown Ann Arbor. Nestled at 212 S 4th Ave, our modern hotel offers easy access to the vibrant culture and attractions the city is known for. Whether you're visiting the University of Michigan, exploring the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, or attending a local festival, you'll find yourself just moments away from exciting destinations. 

Exhibit A2 Hotel is designed with the contemporary traveler in mind, featuring spacious, well-appointed rooms that cater to both leisure and business guests. Enjoy amenities such as complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and an ergonomic workspace in each room, ensuring productivity and relaxation are at your fingertips. 

Guests can unwind at our state-of-the-art fitness center, or savor delightful meals at our on-site dining venue, serving a selection of international and American cuisine, perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. After exploring the city, relax in our inviting lobby or catch up with colleagues and friends in our lounge area.

For those planning meetings or events, Exhibit A2 provides versatile space equipped with modern audiovisual technology for successful gatherings. With a focus on personalized service and hospitality, our professional staff is committed to making your stay memorable. 

Whether you're traveling for business, pleasure, or a mix of both, Exhibit A2 Hotel is the ideal choice for your Ann Arbor adventure. 

Exhibit A2 Hotel

The Vanguard Ann Arbor, Autograph Collection, is a distinctive destination nestled in the heart of Ann Arbor, Michigan. This exceptional hotel offers guests a blend of modern elegance and vibrant local culture, making it a perfect choice for business travelers, couples, and tourists alike. Conveniently located at 201 Glen Avenue, the hotel is just minutes away from the bustling downtown area, the University of Michigan, and a variety of museums and galleries, all providing guests with endless opportunities to explore the rich heritage of the city.

The Vanguard Ann Arbor prides itself on providing premier accommodations, including stylishly appointed rooms designed with comfort and functionality in mind. Guests can look forward to a restful stay in well-equipped rooms that feature plush bedding, contemporary décor, and high-speed internet access.

Dining at The Vanguard Ann Arbor is an experience in itself, as the hotel boasts a sophisticated on-site restaurant offering an exquisite mix of local and international cuisine sure to delight any palate. Whether you're here for a leisurely getaway or a busy business trip, the hotel ensures a seamless blend of convenience and luxury.

Travelers seeking relaxation and wellness will appreciate access to the hotel's state-of-the-art fitness center, while business guests can take advantage of fully equipped meeting spaces ideal for corporate gatherings or special occasions. Experience the perfect balance of style and substance at The Vanguard Ann Arbor, a hotel designed to elevate every aspect of your stay. 

The Vanguard Ann Arbor, Autograph Collection

Experience the perfect blend of comfort, convenience and hometown hospitality at the Residence Inn by Marriott Ann Arbor Downtown. Just steps away from the University of Michigan campus, the hotel offers spacious suites with full kitchens, complimentary Wi-Fi, and complimentary hot breakfast. Enjoy easy access to downtown Ann Arbor's attractions and activities, such as the Michigan Theater, the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, and the Cobblestone Farm Museum. Relax in the heated indoor pool or get energized in the 24-hour fitness center. For the perfect combination of convenience and comfort, book your stay at the Residence Inn by Marriott Ann Arbor Downtown. 

Residence Inn by Marriott Ann Arbor Downtown

Discover an inviting haven at the Burnt Toast Inn and The Washington House, perfectly nestled in the heart of Ann Arbor. Situated on West William Street and Washington Street, this charming establishment provides a serene escape while being just moments away from the city's vibrant center. Each room is thoughtfully designed to blend comfort with style, creating a relaxing environment for both leisure and business travelers.

Guests at Burnt Toast Inn can enjoy an array of amenities designed to enhance their stay. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients, guaranteed to provide a delightful taste of the region. Relaxation comes effortlessly in the well-appointed rooms, each equipped to offer the utmost comfort with plush bedding and modern conveniences.

The inn's key location ensures easy access to Ann Arbor’s top attractions, including the University of Michigan and the eclectic shops and restaurants of Main Street. Whether you’re here to explore the campus or indulge in the thriving local arts scene, the Burnt Toast Inn offers ideal proximity for your adventures.

Perfect for couples and solo travelers alike, this establishment brings a unique blend of warmth and privacy. Although pets aren’t accommodated, the inn’s commitment to exceptional service and comfortable amenities makes it an outstanding choice for those seeking a welcoming retreat in the heart of Ann Arbor. 

Burnt Toast Inn And The Washington House

Discover the charm and comfort of Ann Arbor Guesthouses, perfectly nestled in the heart of Ann Arbor at 409 N 4th Ave. This inviting retreat caters to travelers seeking a unique and personalized stay, ideal for both business visits and leisurely exploration. Each guesthouse offers a blend of modern convenience and quaint ambiance, designed to make your visit unforgettable.

Guests can choose from a variety of quaint and comfortable accommodations, offering a cozy atmosphere that reflects the vibrant spirit of Ann Arbor. Each guesthouse is designed with careful attention to detail, providing the perfect environment to relax after a day of meetings or sightseeing. While amenities vary, all accommodations ensure a restful experience with essential comforts.

Positioned just a short stroll from downtown Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor Guesthouses provide easy access to local attractions, dining, and cultural experiences. The property is a stone’s throw from the University of Michigan, making it a superb choice for visiting families, academic guests, and those attending university events. The prime location allows you to effortlessly explore the charming streets, shops, and cafés that make Ann Arbor a beloved destination.

Whether you’re in town for business, pleasure, or a blend of both, Ann Arbor Guesthouses offer a welcoming haven where you can experience the best of what this lively city has to offer. Book your stay and enjoy a peaceful retreat in a prime location. 

Ann Arbor Guesthouses

Nestled in the heart of Ann Arbor, Baxter House Bed and Breakfast offers an inviting retreat for those seeking comfort and charm. Located conveniently at 719 N 4th Ave, this delightful establishment is an excellent choice for couples, solo adventurers, and business travelers. Guests are welcomed into an atmosphere that combines the authenticity of a historic property with the conveniences of modern amenities.

At Baxter House, each room is thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and cozy stay, featuring charming decor that reflects the period architecture while ensuring guest comfort. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep followed by a complimentary, freshly prepared breakfast each morning, offering both hearty and lighter options to suit various tastes. 

This bed and breakfast’s strategic location provides easy access to some of Ann Arbor’s most renowned attractions. Guests are just a short distance from the vibrant University of Michigan campus, as well as local museums, shops, and dining establishments. Whether you're here to explore the historic charm of the city or simply relax, Baxter House provides a warm and welcoming environment.

Baxter House Bed and Breakfast prides itself on delivering personalized service, ensuring each guest feels right at home. Consider this charming bed and breakfast for your next visit to Ann Arbor, where you can experience the warmth and character of this remarkable city. 

The Stories We Carry: Writer Colum McCann in Conversation with Michigan Public's April Baer

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