After six decades, Menard has written his memoir, The Kite That Couldn’t Fly: And Other May Avenue Stories. His childhood stories are powerful and, somehow, both unique and relatable at the same time. Written by the second oldest of 14 children, Michael Menard tells his childhood stories of beautiful redemption and how light comes from darkness.

You’ve been through some tough stuff; we all have, but Menard’s experiences are off the charts. The May Avenue Stories range from funny to unthinkable to unfathomable and offer a raw and courageous glimpse into a journey none of us would choose, yet in a sense; we are all on. The May Avenue Stories tell the reader, “You are not alone,” and provide the opportunity to reflect on subjects we desperately need to discuss.