Over the years I’ve presented a number of programs in people’s homes or backyards. These have always been very enjoyable and pleasant. Folk musicians give house concerts and this is something I would like to do more of – share poems and stories in an intimate setting.

What I envision is a gathering of 10 to 20 people at someone’s house or yard. Possibly a pot luck beforehand which would allow for conversation and “getting to know” relating. This would be followed by my sharing poems and stories in a conversational kind of way. The whole event would last for 2 – 3 hours and be a combination social/creative gathering in an intimate, relaxed setting. Payment would be a free-will-donation.

I am open to booking a House Reading most anywhere. When I get one booking I then work to get other bookings in the region, so even if you’re far away from Wheeler Hill I would still be interested in considering the possibility.

If you are intrigued about maybe hosting a House Reading send me an email and let’s start a conversation.

A few comments by House Reading hosts:

Michael Czarnecki did a house reading at our home this summer. He is so relaxed and comfortable, even those who swear they don’t like poetry enjoy the time spent with Michael and his gift for telling stories from his many adventures on the road as a poet, and all about the natural world.

DF, Marysville, CA

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I met Michael at a book reading at our local library. Within minutes I was hooked with his beautiful engaging poetry. Not only were the words beautiful, but his reading of the poetry was mesmerizing. From that day on, I have hosted a house party for Michael as he travels across the country. His books are big sellers with my friends and my guests. I keep his Route 20 book in my guest rooms and often just let guests take them home. Whenever I host a party for Michael or when friends know he is in town, folks flock to him and his work. 

House parties are easy. Gather your favorite friends and invite them over for an evening of poetry. I always have a potluck so that everyone can gather, share each other’s cooking and enjoy the poetry. Enjoy hosting your party, it is a delightful way to spend an evening!

LH, Angola, IN

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I was delighted to host a poetry reading for Michael — and, he was an exceptional house guest for the weekend, to boot. We’d met and struck up conversation outside a café in New York where I had stopped on a road trip, and he suggested the possibility of me hosting a reading back at my home in New Hampshire. On a lark, I said, “Sure!” And I’m so glad I did. 

The cottage where I live is small and not at all fancy, but at least a dozen friends cozied up for a potluck followed by Michael’s reading, then dessert and more conversation. Michael made a point to engage with everyone in attendance, and a couple of them are hoping he’ll return to teach a memoir class that he spoke with them about. Michael’s poems are simple and accessible, and I especially enjoyed the way he wove them together with stories, anecdotes and very well-timed humor. To me, that stitching was as much a highlight of the reading as the poems themselves. 

HN, Portsmouth, NH

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Your house reading was a real treat. Folks totally loved your poetry as well as the countless stories from your travels. It’s been two years now and people still talk about the good time they had that evening.

CR, Bennington, VT