Order Now:

Speaking Services

Because Rick works full-time as President of the University of the Ozarks, his availability for speaking engagements is limited. However, if you are interested in booking him for a speaking engagement or reading, please do not hesitate to contact us. We promise to accommodate every request if possible.

Attention Book Clubs, Church Groups, Civic Clubs, and Professional Organizations looking for an inspirational program: Host a Side-Yard Superhero party!

A university president and true storyteller, Rick Niece shares an assortment of childhood memories, ranging from the eccentric and humorous (the trendsetting Fern Burdette who only wore a brassiere from the waist up) to the heartwarming and poignant (the reclusive Miss Lizzie who made the best pumpkin bread in the Midwest) to the true bittersweet moments, including Dick Tracy comic lover and wheelchair-bound, Bernie Jones.

Raised in a town of 900 residents, Rick learned the true sense of community and trust, a theme that runs throughout his "automythography".

"The memories I share in The Side-Yard Superhero are about capturing a time of pure innocence and simplicity. I wanted to write a book that appealed to grandparents and grandchildren alike, opening the dialogue about the time when life was simple and people were downright good."

Rick is available to lead discussions on:

  • The many lessons Bernie taught him that positively impacted his life
  • How "superheroes" are all around us
  • How to uphold a sense of optimism during pessimistic times
  • The acceptance of others who are different than we are
  • The importance of tolerance and sincerely listening to an opposing point of view
  • The need for a sense of community in our lives — a place where we belong and are unconditionally accepted

To schedule an interview with Rick, or to receive a review copy of The Side-Yard Superhero, please contact Marissa Eigenbrood at (856)489-8654, ext 309 or marissa@smithpublicity.com.