Read a Good Local Indie Title Lately?

KDL’s Local Indie collection highlights independently published works by local authors & artists. It’s a great way to discover new writers, musicians & filmmakers right in your own back yard.

I recently read Mind Your Own Business by local restaurateur Tommy Brann. He shares anecdotes and advice from more than 40 years in the business. Co-author Brian Van Ochten offers a “side dish” of personal insights in between each chapter.

Brann started out in his father’s restaurant & worked his way up the ladder from dishwasher to busboy to bartender. At age 19 he borrowed money from his dad & purchased his own restaurant, which eventually became a locally renowned chain. Now run by Tommy’s sons, the restaurants continue to be popular with Grand Rapids-area residents.

This book should resonate with anyone who has lived in West Michigan for any length of time. The anecdotes are interesting (and often amusing) and the advice provides basic, down-to-earth guidance and encouragement for anyone starting, or wanting to start, their own business.

Currently the Local Indie collection is housed at the Cascade Township and Kentwood Branches, but all of the items may be borrowed system-wide. Try it – you’ll like it!!