Caledonia Argus

Author will visit Caledonia Library

Posted: 4/30/02

by Jane Palen
Managing editor

Author Peter Razor will be a special guest at the Caledonia Public Library on Friday, May 10.

Razor, a Native American, wrote the award-winning book ìWhile the Locust Slept.î The book, his first, is the true story of Razorís experiences as an orphan at the State Public School in Owatonna, followed by several years as the foster son of an abusive farmer near Houston. Following a savage beating there, he was removed from that home and placed with Leland and Pat Klug of rural Caledonia. At the Klugís, Razorís life began to gain some sense of normality as he learns what it feels like to be part of a family.

Razor uses Peter as a pen name; his given name is James Peter, and he was known as Jim.

Pat Klug recalls that she and Lee were married only a few months when Razor came to live with them. Leeís parents had moved to town and they had a large farmhouse. The social worker, Mr. Miller, asked them if they would take him in.

Although he enjoyed living on the farm, Pat said that Razor knew that he wasnít going to be a farmer. He left Caledonia at the age of 18, but has never lost touch with the Klugs, and visits several times a year.

ìI really and truly think he was a strong person to leave here at 18 and go out on his own,î said Pat.

Pat said that she was aware that he was writing a book about his experiences several years before the book was released.

ìWhile the Locust Sleptî won a 2002 Minnesota Book Award in the autobiography/memoir category.

Razor will be visiting, showing a video and signing copies of his book from 1-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. on the 10th. The library will be closed for general check-outs during Razorís appearance.

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