Arts and Culture

‘A story within a story’: Author Alan St. Jean visits Lock Haven Catholic School

LOCK HAVEN -- When author Alan St. Jean visited Lock Haven Catholic School in February of this year, they discovered he was there for more than just a visit.

At the end of his stay, St. Jean presented the school with hundreds of books containing a message about faith, love and hope entitled, "Hope on the Hilltop."

These books were given to the students at no extra cost, with each student receiving their own copy.

"Don't thank me," said St. Jean regarding the donated books. "Yes, I wrote the story, but I did it for a man who wanted to pay tribute to the school that shaped his life many years ago. His name is Don Bradley."

Bradley lives with his wife of 50 years in Columbus, Ohio, where he heads the organization that bears his name, The Bradley Company.

Blessed with family and success, Bradley hasn't forgotten where he came from and often visits the St. Mary Magdalene School he attended so long ago. He also sponsors a Kindergarten club for the little ones.

In 2023, Don approached St. Jean about writing a book for St. Mary Magdalene, a legacy book with a positive message. The book contains a music video with a song written for the project called "Do you Believe in Love."

Bradley gives these books to worthy schools, just as he has given of his time and resources for years. The story within the story, the story of this man's great heart, shines as the backdrop of a good deed.

The book portrays a positive message with a ripple effect that will endure for generations to come.

For more information about "Hope on the Hilltop" or other books by Alan St. Jean, simply visit www.alanstjean.com.