© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

‘Happy Anyway’: Flint essays offer optimism

A new book might be a pick-me-up for the people of Flint. It’s called “Happy Anyway: A Flint Anthology.” We talk with editor Scott Atkinson.

Everybody knows that times have been tough in Flint for a long time. Economic problems have been compounded by the contamination of the city’s water supply.

A new book confronts life in Flint in a way that shows that in spite of its trouble, many people are sticking with the city.

“Happy Anyway: A Flint Anthology” is made up of two dozen essays about Flint, written by people who live there and people who’ve left Flint over the years.

Current State's Scott Pohl talks with editor Scott Atkinson, and we hear an excerpt from one of the essays by writer Edward McClelland.

Scott Pohl has maintained an on-call schedule reporting for WKAR following his retirement after 36 years on the air at the station.
Related Content
Support Local Journalism in Mid-Michigan

WKAR delivers fact-based, independent journalism—free and accessible to all. No paywalls, no corporate influence—just trusted reporting that keeps our community informed. Your support makes this possible. Donate today.