Through the years Stephen has told stories in 26 states and Canada (so far).
One of the achievements Stephen is proudest of is the Heritage Award presented to him in 2005 at the Appalachian Festival in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was chosen "Man of the Year" in 2007 and was elected to Who's Who in America in 2000, 2001 and 2003. His poetry - known by him as "ragged verse" has been selected to appear on a number of websites and his poem remembering 9/11 traveled around the world and appeared in German and Russian websites!
Stephen's storytelling blog - http://www.mountainstories.net enjoys huge popularity and has a large following of readers. Thousands of readers stop monthly to read the humorous stories, bittersweet memories and wonderful word pictures written by this talented author and poet.
Perhaps you were introduced to Stephen Hollen at a festival, school or community event as he told stories, shared inspirational stories or shared his warm humor. Wherever you crossed his path, there is no doubt that he is a cheerleader. As he stands on a platform he makes you smile, makes you think, encourages you to come up higher.
When he talks about his "hometown of Beloved, Kentucky", characters like his Cousin Peanut, Uncle Billy Gilbert or Birdie Sue Poovey, you will grin with recognition because you have kin just like them. As he reads his ragged verse, his warm bass voice slowly weaves a picture of lightening bugs dancin' at dusk, of mist creepin' down a mountain like molasses on a cold plate... and you find yourself entranced, smiling at the memories he weaves around his audience.
Stephen Hollen is an unsung ambassador for Eastern Kentucky. You can see it in the twinkle of his eye, hear it in the richness of his voice as he asks you to come along and go with him back home... to the hills.
