TORRINGTON – The Goshen County Library Foundation welcomed the community to a meet-and-greet with respected Torrington native and talented author Michael Punke.

Over fifty attendees gathered to meet Punke, who signed copies of his books and engaged in lively discussions about literature, history, and the creative process. Many expressed admiration for his work and shared personal connections to his writing.

Punke is perhaps best known for The Revenant, a powerful tale of survival, resilience, and betrayal that inspired the Oscar-winning film featuring Leonardo DiCaprio. 

In his latest novel, Ridgeline, he takes readers on an action-packed journey through the 1866 Fetterman Fight at Fort Phil Kearney, Wyoming. 

“I think it’s one of the most important adventure stories from Wyoming history. This is a book for anybody from Wyoming that’s interested in what was happening here 150 years ago,” he shared.

While Ridgeline is a page turner, it is also available as an audiobook featuring Punke, voice actor Amanda Stribling, and Oglala Lakota actor Tatanka Means. 

The event was not just about books; it was a heartfelt homecoming. Friends and acquaintances reminisced about high school days, shared memories of working at Fort Laramie, and laughed about significant life milestones together. Reflecting on his roots in Torrington, Punke offered advice to aspiring young writers. 

“The most important thing I think is to write all the time, every chance you get. Keep writing and get feedback from lots of different readers. And then, secondly, I think you should write about the thing that you care about the most and are passionate about because that’s the thing that you’ll be the best writer about,” Punke said.

The meet and greet was more than a book signing; it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the shared love of storytelling. The Revenant, Ridgeline, and Punke’s other works are available at bookstores everywhere and at the Goshen County Library.