Local Author Event at Glädje: Judy Stern & Rudi Hargesheimer

Saturday, April 25, 2026
📍 Glädje
🕚 11:00 AM – Judy Stern Book Reading & Signing
🕐 1:00 PM – Rudi Hargesheimer Photo Presentation

Join us at Glädje for a special day celebrating storytelling, creativity, and local authorship as husband-and-wife duo Judy Stern and Rudi (Randy) Hargesheimer share their newest works through two unique presentations — perfect for families, readers, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys discovering local talent.

Guests are welcome to attend one presentation or make a day of it! Enjoy Judy’s morning children’s book reading, step out for lunch nearby, and return for Rudi’s inspiring afternoon photography presentation.

🐧 11:00 AM — Judy Stern: Three Scary Escapes, PJ Penguin

Book Reading & Signing | Recommended ages 4–9

Bring the kids for a lively and imaginative storytime with local Glädje author Judy Stern as she presents her newest children’s book, Three Scary Escapes, PJ Penguin.

PJ Penguin may have one wing shorter than the other, but he’s a brave and curious helper who always believes he can fix the trouble he finds himself in. Alongside his loyal friends — Zip the sled dog and Al the albatross — PJ escapes angry cooks, sneaky pirates, hungry green pigs, and even a mysterious hermit during a series of thrilling adventures far from Antarctica.

Will they make it all the way to the North Pole to meet the man who gives toys to animals everywhere? Come find out during this engaging reading designed especially for young listeners and families.

A book signing will follow the presentation.

🌊 1:00 PM — Rudi Hargesheimer: Superior Trails

Author Talk & Photography Presentation

Discover and experience the beauty of ALL shores of Lake Superior through the lens of Glädje photo artist Rudi Hargesheimer as he presents images from his newest book, Superior Trails: A Photo Tour of Lake Superior’s Best Hiking Trails.

Featuring dramatic landscapes and breathtaking scenery from around the greatest of the Great Lakes, this presentation showcases some of the world’s most stunning hiking destinations — many closer to home than you might think. From accessible short walks to rugged backpacking routes, Rudi’s work invites both seasoned hikers and casual explorers to discover the magic of Lake Superior.

With over 320 images featured in the book, you may just leave inspired to plan your next adventure!

About the Authors

Judy Stern and Rudi Hargesheimer are longtime Glädje contributors who live in the St. Croix River Valley.

Judy Stern is the author of eight books, including two beloved PJ Penguin children’s stories available at Glädje. Her writing also includes Gallery Days, chronicling the history of the Artists’ Quarter in historic downtown Minneapolis, as well as works inspired by Native American philosophy and lessons learned through nature.

Rudi Hargesheimer is an acclaimed photographer whose books celebrate Lake Superior and the surrounding region. His previous work, The Superior Hiking Trail Story: The Trek Continues, documents the history of the 300-mile trail through more than 400 photographs. A longtime board member and former President of the Superior Hiking Trail Association, Rudi continues to capture the landscapes of Lake Superior and the St. Croix River Valley through his photography.

✨ Free and open to the public! 

📚 Books will be available for purchase and signing at Glädje.

Come celebrate local authors, inspiring stories, and the beauty of adventure — all in one creative afternoon.