Alum AJ Romriell Reads from Wolf Act

On Thursday, March 6, 2025, USU alum AJ Romriell read from his new memoir, Wolf Act. Wolf Act contains a series of linked personal essays that explore AJ’s journey through religion and sexuality while weaving in wolfish symbols in fairy tales and mythology.  

 “It’s so inspiring to see a former student reading,” reflects Brooklyn Hibshman, who is a creative writing student. “They are so candid about what they’ve struggled with and what has been huge roadblocks for them, and they can tell you, ‘This is what worked for me.’”

Chloe Scheve, literature student, reflected on AJ being in her shoes not too long ago. “He’s not that much older than us, and it felt so relatable. I felt much closer to where he is,” she says. 

“It was really cool to hear from a writer who is local, who’s also queer and from Logan,” comments Yash Rivera, creative writing student. “I absolutely loved it.”

After AJ’s reading, English Department Professor Jennifer Sinor started off the Q&A portion of the event, asking AJ about the different forms of essays he used in Wolf Act and how experimenting with them can be both rewarding and challenging. “I wrote down in my notes one of the things he said that I believe was a quote from his mentor: ‘Failing is the most adult thing you can do,’” Cathy Mason, creative writing student, says. “I have a lot to say—many words in me. Sometimes I just have to do other things because when I get to writing, it’s hard. He was so engaging and said it’s okay to do that, it’s okay to take a break, and it’s okay to fail.”

AJ went on to answer questions about his graduate school experience, how he got back into writing after taking a break from it, how he came from feeling as though he had nothing to say to having something important to say, and how he determines when his pieces are ready to submit. “That part was really helpful. I’m always saying my pieces will be better and if I look at it in two months. I’ll change it completely.” Indigo Mardis comments. “But like he said, sometimes things just need to be done and sent.” 

Creative writing student Eli Moss noted how the reading will inspire him in his own writing. “I feel like my creativity has been refueled by this event. It’s easy to lose steam and go through the motions,” he reflects. “Being able to talk to other writers and hear their success stories and hear their amazing work really recharges my own motivation.”