My Life Sounds Like a Poem: A YA Novel-in-Verse about Peg Leg Bates

Join acclaimed poet and storyteller Glenis Redmond for a special evening at the Upcountry History Museum on April 24th as she shares selections from her upcoming YA novel-in-verse, My Life Sounds Like a Poem. This powerful work brings to life the story of Clayton “Peg Leg” Bates, the legendary one-legged tap dancer who defied the odds to become a world-renowned performer.

Through poetry, Glenis will walk the audience through her journey of discovering and falling in love with this iconic figure—his resilience, artistry, and impact on American culture. This event is also a community gathering, where attendees are invited to bring their own Peg Leg Bates stories, photos, and artifacts, helping to weave together a richer tapestry of his life and legacy.

Celebrate the rhythm, history, and spirit of an iconic South Carolina son and legend.

About Glenis Redmond

Baldwin for Arts Fellow 2024-2025 | The First Poet Laureate of Greenville, South Carolina | A 2023 Academy of American Poets Laureate Fellow

Glenis is the author of several books, including