THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, August 15, 2025 Page 11 Maldonian author celebrates new book deal M alden-born author and literary voice Brian Larson made a splash last month on NBC10 Boston’s The Hub, where he shared his top summer book picks with hosts Kwani Lunis and Hannah Donnelly. Known for his thoughtful reviews and infectious enthusiasm for storytelling, Larson curated six standout reads already shaping up to define the year in books. Leading his list was Ocean Vuong’s much-anticipated new novel, “The Emperor of Gladness,” which Larson described as “staggering in its lyricism and emotional truth.” He also praised “At(Photo courtesy of NBC10 The Hub) mosphere” by Taylor Jenkins Reid, calling it “a cinematic and compulsively readable triumph from one of our most consistent storytellers.” But it was a lesser-known debut that Larson says “stole my heart.” “The Correspondent” by Virginia Evans, a first-time novelist, earned high praise: “It’s one of the most heartfelt and charming debuts I’ve read in years. You’ll devour it in a single sitting—and its lead character might be my favorite protagonist of all time.” The TV appearance comes on the heels of big personal news: Larson recently signed a book deal with Broadleaf Books for his upcoming nonfiction title, “The Afterparty.” Described as “Quit Like a Woman” meets “I’m Glad My Mom Died,” the book offers a bold, voice-driven reframing of sobriety — not as deprivation, but as a path to joy, belonging and personal transformation. “I’m so excited for this book to meet people where they are,” Larson said. “Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or just trying to live a fuller, more intentional life, The Afterparty offers grounded, practical ways to do that. It’s about reclaiming your story—and celebrating the freedom that comes with it.” The book was acquired by editor Shari MacDonald Strong at Broadleaf in a competitive deal brokered by Ashley Hong at Gardner Literary. Larson, who also runs the popular Instagram account @Brian. Reads, has built a devoted following for his honest reflections on recovery, identity and the power of the written word. A proud graduate of Boston University and The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, Larson has long championed queer narratives in both fiction and nonfiction. With “The Afterparty” now in the works and national media appearances adding to his momentum, Malden readers can expect to hear much more from one of their own. T wenty-five local nonprofits, community organizations Malden awards funds to 25 local groups for Community Connections • Malden Chamber of Comand grassroots groups will receive funds through a new City of Malden grant program designed to foster community, strengthen bonds between residents and celebrate Malden’s unique character and diverse culture, Mayor Gary Christenson announced. The new Community Connections Grant program will support a wide range of initiatives, including events that bring people together, public art projects that celebrate Malden’s unique character, upgrades to shared spaces and activities that respond to community needs not being met through other funding sources. “In times of fear and division, it is more important than ever that we come together as a community, deepen our connections with our neighbors, and find joy in shared events, stories, and spaces,” said Mayor Christenson. “Our new Community Connections Grant empowers local groups to do what we do best in Malden: celebrate together, support one another, and build connection through our differences. I’m grateful for the leadership shown by all of our applicants and look forward to seeing their efforts resonate throughout our community.” The application process was highly competitive: 56 applicants applied for more than $600,000 in funding, with only $200,000 available to distribute. The City expects to award up to $200,000 annually over the next several years, so future opportunities to apply will be available. The Malden Community Connections Grant program is funded through the Surrounding Community Agreement with Everett’s Encore Boston Harbor and administered by Malden’s Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development. Funds will be spent over the next year, and the next application round is expected to begin in spring 2026. More information is available at www. cityofmalden.org/MCCG or by emailing Deputy Director of Housing and Community Development Jane Ventrone at jventrone@cityofmalden.org. Below is the full list of 2025 Community Connections Grant recipients: • Action for Haitian Community Development, Inc.: $10,000 for a series of workshops and cultural activities. • Chinese Culture Connection: $10,000 for a series of cross-cultural workshops. • Club 24, Inc: $2,500 for the creation of a resource room and library. • Community City Church: $2,000 for enhancements to their Friendsgiving event. • Contro-Verse Open Mic: $2,500 for event space improvements. • Creative Malden: $9,000 for switchbox art maintenance and their Artists Take the Street Festival. • First Baptist Church: $13,500 for upgrades to their community event space. • First Parish Malden: $10,000 for floor replacement in their community event space. • Friends of the Middlesex Fells Reservation: $7,800 for their outof-school-time program. • Malden Arts, Inc.: $20,000 for an open-air mini amphitheater along the ARTLine. merce: $3,500 for enhancements to their Pints on Pleasant event. • Malden Community Health Fest: $3,000 to expand offerings at their festival. • Malden Farmers Market: $7,000 for additional activities and programming. • Malden Gaming District: $5,500 for a New Year Celebration and a Tabletop Game Market. • Malden Grows: $3,500 for J& • Reliable Mowing Service • Spring & Fall Cleanups • Mulch & Edging • Sod or Seed Lawns • Shrub Planting & Trimming • Water & Sewer Repairs Joe Pierotti, Jr. gardening education events and activities. • Malden Historical Society: $8,000 for programs celebrating Malden Declaration Day and the city’s role in the American Revolution. • Malden Juneteenth: $11,000 for expansion of programming at their annual Juneteenth celebration. • Malden Pride Coalition: $7,000 for their annual Pride in FUNDS | SEE PAGE 23 S LANDSCAPE & MASONRY CO. 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