Denville’s Kevin Scollans turned a lifetime of memories and experiences into his first book, Wild and Hearty, a memoir that traces his journey from rural Ireland in the 1940s to a successful and deeply rooted life in America. The book isn’t just a life story, it’s about staying strong, not giving up, and going after the American Dream.
Scollans was born on a farm near a small village in County Cavan, Ireland, and later emigrated to the United States after a few years in London. He arrived in Morristown in the mid-1960s before settling in Denville, where he has lived for the past sixty years.
Much of Wild and Hearty is drawn directly from his early experiences. “It all comes from growing up in that part of Ireland, as depicted in the book,” he said. His storytelling style, warm and natural, has long been appreciated by family and friends, who often encouraged him to write. “I am a big storyteller and my kids and friends would say you should write a book. The book is based on stories and memoirs.”
The book’s central theme of resilience is no accident. Scollans hopes readers see that “with resilience and perseverance, one can accomplish great things while still enjoying life to its fullest.” That message runs through every chapter of the memoir, from childhood on the farm to service in the US Army, and eventually to building a family and a career in Denville.
Writing the book, he said, came naturally. “I enjoy writing so much. It came so easily and flowed in with great ease where I could not stop writing,” though he added with a laugh, “my wife did not like when I spent too much time in my man cave writing.”
Scollan’s publishing journey began with research, which led him to Palmetto Publishing. “I spoke to a very nice lady who was very helpful to where I felt comfortable with her managing my book publishing process.”
While Wild and Hearty is his first full-length book, Scollans has long been comfortable putting words to paper. “I had published several well-received articles, and I always felt comfortable writing.”
The local community has embraced both the book and the man behind it. “I have lived in town for sixty years and know many people, which makes it fun. Love the town and the people,” Scollans said. A recent book signing at Ayres Knuth Farm was especially meaningful. “So many neighbors and friends came and purchased books and some bought several books for their friends and children where one neighbor bought five books.”
Asked how much of the book mirrors his own journey, Scollans is direct. “That is the real me in every way, although I have mellowed in some ways. The fight and love of life is as strong today as ever.” He’s already hard at work on his second book, writing as he puts it, “while enjoying the wonders of a very fruitful life.”
Scollans will be giving another book talk and signing on Thursday, June 5, at the Schillelagh Club, 648 Prospect Ave, West Orange. The event begins at 6:30 p.m., and Scollans plans to arrive between 6 and 6:15. The club, known for its strong Irish and Italian community ties, includes many members from law enforcement, fire services, and legal professions, a group of about 300.
Wild and Hearty is available now and powerfully reflects on the immigrant experience, the strength of community, and a life well-lived right here in Denville. The book can be found on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and most other major media outlets.
