Keeping the Vigil

The fact that educator and historian, Dr. Paul Rominger’s, roots are deeply planted in the town of Berea is undisputed. Those roots, along with the connections and observations to world and national events, as well as to those of the state of Kentucky, are the emphasis of his new book Keeping the Vigil, A Memoir and More published by Acclaim Press. The volume highlights not only those roots but his extensive knowledge and grasp of major names and events, and just as often those lesser known characters and happenings woven into her history. The detail he has encompassed within its pages made the book a fascinating read for this Berea citizen and seventh generation Kentuckian.

As the subtitle conveys, Keeping the Vigil is much more than a memoir. It is not a surprise that the author, with his own long time experience in the classroom, has the capacity to make history become a completely tangible thing to readers. He has a rare ability to turn what some might consider to be mundane facts into the most entertaining stories. But this is not just a book of history, it contains everything from world war to the civil rights movement to current events. His experiences in Native American and Civil War groups bring insight few can match. Something that did surprise this reader was the part of the book that contained Paul’s original poetry. Another interesting inclusion is the section of family and other photographs. I thoroughly enjoyed these charming glimpses into the past. When even the index of a book gives the reader a ‘jaw drop moment’ you know it is going to be good.

I am confident that readers both young and old and from any and all walks of life will enjoy their time with Keeping the Vigil, A Memoir and More. It is sure to become a treasured part of your library and something you will pass along to family and friends. Or better yet, gift them with their own, and keep your copy.