About Tim
Tim and Betsy
Timothy Berkey is an accomplished author, professor, and innovator spanning decades. His work has been recognized in the private and public sectors including the JFK School of Government, Ford Foundation, National School Boards Association, Great Lakes Governors Association, Newsweek, and Crain’s Business Magazine. He is the recipient of the Illinois Those Who Excel recognition, and two-time recipient of the University of Houston’s Excellence in Teaching Award. His book, Improving Your Daily Practice, published by Routledge has been used as road map for aspiring leaders. Tim’s historical research in South on Summit was a three year project to recreate a time in small town America full of romance, love, family, humor, and mystery.
Tim’s Family
Gracie
Tim and his wife Betsy are parents of four children and four grandchildren and reside in Sandusky, Ohio with their mini labradoodle, Gracie. Want to hear Gracie tell stories from South on Summit? Follow her videos on social media.
Social Media Links Coming Soon!
South on Summit
South on Summit was written over three years of intensive historical research to bring authenticity to the storylines that weave in and out of the lives of the characters.
Inspirations
Bill and Mary Lou
My parents, Bill and Mary Lou lived through many of the stories presented, some real and others embellished. Their fifty-five year marriage like so many relationships from their generation, was magical.
My Father was adopted and during the writing process, two discoveries took me on an unexpected path. A lady in Pennsylvania provided documentation that Bill’s Mother, Prudence, had a child when she was 18 and the girl was put up for adoption. This caused me to research what happened to unwed mothers during the turn of the century, evolving into the story of Niamh. The other surprise was a sudden surge in my DNA results linking me to English/Irish heritage. This led me to launch an intensive examination of Irish history and the creation of the book’s protagonist, Drysten/Trysten.
Writers know the intensity and stress that one experiences during the process. My relief was to escape into the world of music videos and was inspired by two young performers, Niamh Noade and Emma Kok. Niamh, wowed people with her voice and harp as a UK Voice Kids Finalist. She is from Northern Ireland. Niamh became the name of Trysten’s love. Emma Kok’s performance of Voila has been viewed by millions. She suffers from gastroparesis and since childhood can only receive nourishment through tubes. She is from the Netherlands which caused me to name the doll Emma that Anna gives to Trysten when the 101st celebrate the liberation of Eindhoven. Like Emma’s music, Emma the doll gave comfort to a soldier who wanted to return home and find his daughter.
And since Swiss Steak is referenced multiple times in the book, I thought readers would like to learn about Prudence’s recipe and techniques to make this delicious meal. Follow the link to find her process. It is my favorite go to comfort food.
