Summer readings: New offers from local authors, from the poetic to the deep through the simple pleasure


Moonshiner Popcorn Sutton by Neal Hutcheson, with forwards Kirk French and David Joy

Raleigh documentary filmmaker Neal Hutcheson may have spent more time with the late Popcorn Sutton than anyone outside of the legendary moonshiner’s inner circle. This full portrait of Popcorn, a nationally famous Haywood County native, is imbued with Sutton’s presence via lengthy interviews, stunning photographs of the man and his “shine operations”, and poignant tributes from Hutcheson and others. Finally, this book expresses the depth of a character who has eclipsed his reputation as a designer and played a significant part in the creation of his own myths.

An Army That Sings: Zilphia Horton and the Highlander Folk School by Kim Ruehl

Asheville writer Kim Ruehl has done a great service to the history of American social justice movements in this first biography of Zilphia Horton. The wife of longtime Highlander Folk School principal Myles Horton Zilphia brought art, drama, music and heart to the East Tennessee institution that trained frontline activists of labor and civil rights for decades. While his untimely death in 1956 at the age of 44 cut Horton’s story short, Ruehl’s comprehensive and thoughtful book is a testament to his lasting influence.

The wind under the door by Thomas Calder

Serious and remarkable beginnings, The wind under the door takes place in Asheville, in a 30- to 40-year-old setting that will be familiar to many artists and cultural connoisseurs of the city. The characters struggle with failed marriages, uncertain new romances, and regrets that resist memory-erasing amounts of alcohol. There are pleasures amidst the pain, however, and Calder’s skillful use of independent music subtext, along with his pure storytelling skills, make him a most welcome addition to local lighting.

wood smoke by Wayne Caldwell

Originally from Asheville, best known for his 2007 novel Cataloochee, Wayne Caldwell presents his first verse book, delivered in the form of “found” missives from Posey Green, a fictional inhabitant of Pisgah Forest, a grizzled mountain man, stoic and not lacking in local spirit. – juxtaposed with the notes of an imaginary neighbor / observer. The 79 short poems weave a story of life immersed in the earth.

Miss Julia happily forever by Ann B. Ross

The parting is indeed a sweet heartbreak in this latest (and 25th!) Episode of Hendersonville author Ann B. Ross’ hit series, which finds Miss Julia applying her Southern style and humor to a series of ‘Marriage-Based Plots in Abbottsville Fiction. , a town with a striking resemblance to that of Ross. While the legions of Miss Julia fans will no doubt be sorry to see her go, Ross is giving her iconic character an enthusiastic sendoff.


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