Q&A with the Author: Valerie Battle Kienzle

Available Books

• 100 Things To Do at the Lake of the Ozarks Before You Die (May 2023, Reedy Press)

• Main Street St. Charles, MO: A Walk Through History (Reedy Press)

• Ready to Wear: A History of the Footwear and Garment Industries in St. Louis (Reedy Press)

• What’s With St. Louis?, 2nd Edition (Reedy Press)

• Lost St. Louis (The History Press)

• What’s With St. Louis? (Reedy Press)

Valerie Battle Kienzle has been coming to Lake of the Ozarks since the 1980s so it’s safe to say she knows a thing or two about the area. Traveling and writing about communities is something Kienzle loves to do and she is releasing her ninth book showcasing all the Lake has to offer.

• Columbia (MO)-Images of America (Arcadia Publishing)

• St. Charles (MO)-Postcard History Series (Arcadia Publishing)

• Bicentennial History 1821-2021, First St. Charles United Methodist Church www.valeriebattlekienzle.com

“100 Things to Do At the Lake of the Ozarks Before You Die,” published by St. Louis-based Reedy Press, will be released on May 1. It contains activities, attractions and amenities that have been developed around the Lake’s 1,100-miles of shoreline. The book contains a collection of places to see, things to do, and unique opportunities for people of all ages.

A native of Nashville, Tenn., Kienzle graduated from the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism and spent more than 40 years in various writing-related positions. Her family owned a Lake home in Osage Beach since 1981.

“I’ve spent countless vacations and extended periods of time enjoying the Ozark-style Lake life with four generations of family members and friends,” she said.

“Individuals born after 1980 may associate the Lake of the Ozarks area with watercraft, large lakefront restaurants, or a Netflix series (it wasn’t filmed there). Those born before 1980 may think of fishing, cabins, and music shows. The Lake area is so much more. It is truly a Missouri tresure.”

Kienzle is already busy working on her next book, a walking tour book about historic Ste. Genevieve, Mo.

Why did you decide to write this book and what was your inspiration?

As a self-described lifelong learner, I’ve made it a point to learn as much as I can about both the history and the current status of the areas surrounding the expansive Lake of the Ozarks. I’ve spent extended time there in warm-weather months and also during fall and winter. I discovered that the Lake area has its own beauty and interests in each season. I’ve also spent time in beautiful lakeside homes, as well as decades-old mom-and-pop motels. Each has provided unique experiences. My ongoing goal of discovering new eating and entertainment opportunities at the Lake has resulted in a lengthy “been there, done that” list. “100 Things to Do in Lake of the Ozarks Before You Die” developed as a result of that personal list.

What would you like for readers to take away after reading your book?

I hope readers will realize that the Lake of the Ozarks area is truly a playground for all ages, with something for everyone — residents and visitors alike. I encourage people to stick their toes in the sand, to savor a sunset at a lakeside restaurant, to hit the links at one of the numerous golf courses, to paddle around a quiet cove, to cruise to a local watering hole, or to hike their way to spectacular vistas. The Lake of the Ozarks area offers these opportunities and so many more!

Where can people purchase it. Are there any events you will be appearing at?

“100 Things to Do in Lake of the Ozarks Before You Die” can be purchased at Boardwalk on 54 and through Reedy Press at books@reedypress.com, 314-833-6600. Reedy is continuing to make the book available at other local retail outlets. A book singing and launch event will be held May 27 from 12-2 p.m. at the Boardwalk on 54 in Camdenton (138 US Hwy. 54, Camdenton). Other upcoming events include a signing and presentation at Bridal Cave on Sat., June 16 from 11 a.m.2 p.m. and presentations at public libraries in Vienna (July 6, 6-7 p.m.), Eldon (July 13, 6-7 p.m.), and Camdenton (July 14, 2-3 p.m. and 6-7 p.m.).

by John Neporadny, jnoutdoors.com