Rick Kogan explores the story behind Maria Pappas’ memoir with co-writer Mark Eleveld

When beloved columnist Rick Kogan sits down with someone who has a story to tell, you can always count on an interesting conversation. His latest "After Hours with Rick Kogan" podcast takes that familiar Chicago storytelling formula into the world of Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, with teacher and writer Mark Eleveld joining him to discuss their new memoir, “Maria the Pappas.”

The September 20 conversation explores what went into creating the book, including Eleveld’s experience working with Pappas and the extensive collection of photographs that help tell her life story. But the discussion also conveys something beyond the mechanics of putting a memoir together: a genuine admiration for the woman at its center.

 Pappas has spent decades in public life, but the memoir looks beyond her official title to the personal experiences, family history and values that shaped her. Born into a working-class Greek-American family in West Virginia, she went on to become one of Cook County’s longest-serving elected officials. Her story encompasses politics, faith, cultural identity and a longstanding desire to help others.

Eleveld’s collaboration with Pappas gave him an opportunity to work closely with her and help assemble the many pieces of that story. The photographs, in particular, add another dimension to the project, offering readers a visual record of the people and experiences that have been part of her journey.

Kogan and Eleveld’s warm regard for Pappas is an important part of the conversation. Their interest in her extends beyond the public figure and into the personality, experiences and personal convictions behind the name. That affection adds a personal dimension to a discussion that also addresses the practical work of writing and assembling a memoir.

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And because this is Chicago, the conversation naturally turns to politics, too. Kogan and Eleveld discuss the possibility of Pappas running for mayor of Chicago, a question that adds another layer of local interest to the episode.

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For anyone interested in Chicago personalities, local politics or the stories behind the people who have helped shape the city, the episode offers a look at the making of “Maria the Pappas” and the people who helped bring it to the page.

Listen to the episode: The story behind ‘Maria the Pappas’ on Apple Podcasts 

To buy the book, click here.