Wilma Dykeman Stokely was an American author whose works chronicled the people and land of Appalachia. Through her fiction and nonfiction, she captured the unique aspects of life in this region. Her writing was marked by a deep understanding and affection for the local culture and natural environment. Dykeman Stokely often explored the relationship between humanity and the landscape in her writings.
Set against the backdrop of the Civil War's aftermath in the Southern mountains, the story follows Lydia McQueen as she faces significant challenges in her pursuit of a better life and her goal of establishing a school for her community. Her journey intertwines with the ambitions of various characters, including a clan of outcasts, while navigating the complexities of nature and uncovering long-standing mysteries from the war. The novel explores themes of resilience, community, and the impact of history on personal aspirations.
In his first book in six years, Donald Davis, often regarded as the father of family tales, reflects on his upbringing in the southern Appalachians, focusing on his bond with his brother Joe. Growing up in a family of traditional storytellers in western North Carolina, Davis absorbed narratives rather than learned them. This collection features 18 stories arranged chronologically, including humorous anecdotes about second-graders petitioning for paddling as punishment, his mother’s reluctant decision to cut Joe's curly hair, and the misadventures of babysitting with his cousin Andy. Through these tender and often humorous tales, Davis resonates with readers, prompting them to recall their own childhood memories. His storytelling invites listeners to engage deeply, co-creating shared experiences that celebrate the creative spirit. Even in written form, his strong voice brings the stories to life. Davis, a graduate of Davidson College and Duke University Divinity School, served as a United Methodist minister for over 20 years before becoming a full-time storyteller in 1989. He now tours extensively, conducting workshops on personal storytelling and has been featured in various prestigious venues. When not traveling, he resides on Ocracoke Island.
