Bonus Episode - Sparks of the Revolution with Todd Otis
In this special bonus episode of History Through Fiction: The Podcast, host Colin Mustful sits down with Todd Otis, author of Sparks of the Revolution. The conversation dives into the life and legacy of James Otis, a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in the early resistance against British rule. Todd shares insights into Otis’s legal battles, his mental health struggles, and his influence on key revolutionary figures like Sam Adams and Mercy Otis Warren. The discussion also explores the relevance of Otis’s story to today’s political climate and the enduring power of the written word in shaping democracy. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that bridges history and the present.
About the Author
Todd Otis was born in 1945 and lives in Minneapolis with his partner, Ren. He is the father of Philip, Katharine, and Madeline, and stepfather of Josh and Heather. He is the proud grandfather of eight amazing grandchildren. He was educated at the St. Paul Academy and earned an AB from Harvard College and an MS in Journalism from Columbia University. He is an indirect descendant of James Otis the Patriot.Todd's public service includes being a volunteer in the Peace Corps, Senegal, as well as serving as a Minnesota State Representative from 1979 to 1990, after which he consulted and advocated for support of environmental and educational reforms. The last twenty years of his working life were dedicated to improving the early care and education of Minnesota's youngest citizens. Today, Todd serves on several boards. He is also the author of A Review of Nuclear Energy in the United States: Hidden Power (Praeger, 1981). He enjoys being with his family and friends, reading, writing, playing tennis, watching Minnesota sports teams, and traveling with Ren Dewar
