Phoenix Books in Burlington, Vermont, will host Jen Ellis to celebrate the release of her new book, Bernie’s Mitten Maker (Green Writers Press, 2023), the story behind Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders’ infamous inaugural mittens, on Tuesday, May 2nd.
Bernie’s Mitten Maker is a raw and honest account of the joy, stress, and shock of sudden internet fame. This memoir explores the many roads that led to the Bernie Sanders mitten meme sensation that followed the 2021 presidential inauguration. Vermont teacher, mother, and crafter, Ellis weaves the stories of her life together with humor and insight. She shares her struggles with childhood trauma, infertility, and homophobia and shows us how crafting can build community and generosity can bring joy.
Jen Ellis was a teacher and crafter when the mittens she sewed for Senator Bernie Sanders became the inspiration for millions of memes. Originally from South Portland, Maine, Ellis’s teaching career spanned nearly two decades in the public schools of North Carolina and Vermont.
She is a songwriter, beekeeper, and still sews the occasional pair of mittens for local non-profit fundraisers. She is currently pursuing a masters in counseling from the University of Vermont. This is her debut publication. Ellis lives in Vermont with her wife and daughter.
This event will begin at 7 pm and is free and open to the public. Registration is appreciated. Phoenix Books is located at 191 Bank Street, in downtown Burlington. For more information or to register, click here.
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