Motivational Quote Book Author Swings By Library

Esteemed author and motivational speaker Peter A. LaPorta dropped by the Stratford Library Wednesday for an evening of stories and quotes.

As part of a tour to promote his new book, "A Quote for Every Day," which ties 365 quotes to 365 motivational tales, LaPorta spoke to a group of fans about the challenge which the book proposes to its reader.

LaPorta said each "message" begins with a quote from an esteemed individual -- Benjamin Franklin, Edgar Allen Poe and Albert Einstein are but a few on a long list of achievers that the author borrows from.

But while LaPorta, a history buff, hinted that each day contains a hidden message, he was not so quick to reveal their secrets.

“Every quote on every day is there for a reason,” the author said. “It’s up to the reader to figure out why. I can’t give you all of the answers.”

The motivational stories coupled with the quotes touch on topics that range from finding your inner strength to the difference between ideas and visions to respecting time, LaPorta said. Detailed instructions on practical ways people can incorporate these strategies into their everyday lives are also included within the pages, he said.

“Every minute of every day means something to somebody, so respect it,” LaPorta said. “To give someone the best gift of all, give them time.”

After the author's lecture, patrons were invited to have a quote read by LaPorta on the date of their birthday, as well as have a copy of their "A Quote for Every Day" signed by the author.

LaPorta is originally from neighboring Monroe and is a graduate of the University of Connecticut. Although he now resides in Orlando, he said he is proud of his Nutmeg State roots and even joked that when he goes to Florida, he is “just visiting.” He lives there with his wife and four children.

Other works by the author and former Disney employee include “Who Hired These People?” which was acclaimed for its criticism of the customer service at Walmart. LaPorta's first book “Ignite the Passion: A Guide to Motivational Leadership” was recognized by Amazon as one of the 20 greatest motivational books in print.

For more information on LaPorta, please visit his website.