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SUNY Potsdam to Host Bestselling Author Tracey Lange as She Returns to the Setting of her New Novel—Potsdam, N.Y.

August 7, 2025
SUNY Potsdam Hosts Author Visit by Tracey Lange, Returning to the Location of Her New Book, ‘What Happened to the McCrays?’ 

Bestselling author Tracey Lange will visit SUNY Potsdam to discuss her novel set in Potsdam, “What Happened to the McCrays?,” on Thursday, Oct. 23.

New York Times bestselling author Tracey Lange will return to the setting of her newest novel this fall, as part of a special visit organized and hosted by SUNY Potsdam. 

Lange’s latest book, “What Happened to the McCrays?,” is set in and around Potsdam, N.Y., with many local landmarks, institutions and businesses making appearances—along with a cast of characters who seem like they would fit in just fine in the North Country community. 

She will make her first return visit to Potsdam since the novel was released later this fall, with a free public talk scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 23 at 6 p.m., in the Barrington Student Union at SUNY Potsdam. During her visit, Lange will also visit with classes and get a chance to stop by some of the locations that inspired the world for her new work. 

SUNY Potsdam is coordinating with local libraries and book clubs, to try to encourage as many local readers as possible to enjoy Lange’s book ahead of the visit. Lange’s novel is available at the Potsdam Gear Shop, located in the Barrington Student Union, and at all national retailers. It is also available at local libraries (pending availability) and for digital download. 

Tracey Lange was born and raised in New York City before heading west to graduate from the University of New Mexico with a degree in psychology. After owning and operating a mental health services company with her husband for fifteen years, she completed the Stanford University novel writing program while working on her first novel, the  New York Times bestseller,  “We Are the Brennans.” Her second novel is titled “The Connellys of County Down.” Lange currently lives in beautiful Bend, Oregon with her husband, two sons, and beloved German Shepherd. 

Tracey Lange will travel to SUNY Potsdam for a free public book discussion and special visit on Oct. 23. Her latest novel, "What Happened to the McCrays?," is set in Potsdam, N.Y.

This is a free public event, and a book signing with light refreshments will immediately follow the talk. Hardcover copies of the book will be available for sale.  

While walk-ins will be welcomed at the door, guests are asked to reserve tickets in advance to help the campus prepare for the expected audience size. You can reserve a free ticket online at https://www.givecampus.com/schools/SUNYPotsdam/events/what-happened-to-the-mccrays-book-talk-with-author-tracey-lange. 

There is also an option to reserve both a hardcover copy of the book in advance, along with a free ticket for the event, via the same registration link. 

This LoKo Arts project is made possible by the generosity and artistic vision of Kathryn (Kofoed) Lougheed ’54 and Donald Lougheed (Hon. ’54). 

About SUNY Potsdam:  

Founded in 1816, The State University of New York at Potsdam is one of America’s first 50 colleges—and the oldest institution within SUNY. Now in its third century, SUNY Potsdam is distinguished by a legacy of pioneering programs and educational excellence. The College currently enrolls approximately 2,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Home to the world-renowned Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam is known for its challenging liberal arts and sciences core, distinction in teacher training and culture of creativity. To learn more, visit www.potsdam.edu. 

For Media Inquiries

Alexandra Jacobs Wilke

jacobsam@potsdam.edu 315-267-2918

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