Bicentennial Summer
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Local Authors Day Written in for Nov. 15

By Nikki Childers Southern Standard Reporter Oct 24, 2025

Local Authors Day is turning the page on its fourth annual event next month.

On Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to noon, authors will be in attendance at Magness Library and prepared to meet the community. Although any author who is interested is invited to participate, interim Magness Library Director Merissa Chapman indicated most tend to be from closer to Warren County and its surrounding areas.“It’s important to show our small town authors that we care. The more I’ve learned about the book-publishing world, I’ve realized how much work goes into publishing a single book,” Chapman said. “They are following their dreams and it isn’t an easy one — hopefully all the authors feel supported and know we love their work just as much as our ‘big time’ authors.”

Thus far, a handful of authors have signed up to attend the event:

• McMinnville resident Mary Berelson is the authoress of “Bicentennial Summer”, which is a coming-of-age tale which journeys across America and explores growth, self-discovery and family dynamics. Berelson masterfully blends historical fiction and personal memory to connect deeply with her readers through her writing, providing them with a heartfelt and engaging narrative.

• Paul H. Rowney was born in London, England but now calls Nashville Home. He penned the “French Creek” post-apocalyptic series, which recently published its latest entry in the quartet. His work follows the events of a catastrophe called the “Collapse” and the complicated trials of rebuilding in their wake.

• David Gaffin boasts 20 years of experience at the National Weather Service, where he was the senior forecaster. This undoubtedly was a boon as he went on to write “Southern Appalachian Weather” in August of 2012. His initial entry into the publishing world provides explanations for some of the perplexing weather phenomena in the area and highlights significant weather events from the past. More recently, Gaffin released “My All-American, Bipolar Dad: An Evaluation and Appreciation of His Life”, which details his father’s life and shines a light on how mental health struggles can affect a familial unit.

The above authors and any others who elect to attend will be set up at tables and guests will be able to meet them, purchase books and have anything they already own signed. A table will be outfitted with free popcorn and door prizes as well, which are entirely free to patrons. This year’s door prize is a book basket with additional goodies.“I love seeing everyone attend this event and have a good time,” Chapman said. “That’s my main goal with every event we have.”

More tables are available for prospective authors and there is no fee to sign up. Interested parties are encouraged to call (931) 473-2428, message the Magness Library’s Facebook page or email Chapman at magnessref@gmail.com.

Been There, Done That

Virtual Truckee Book Club with Denise and Friends 10/28/2

Last night’s virtual book club with Denise and my old teacher friends was such a warm and lively evening. Thank you for connecting with me! We reminisced about the good ole days and dove into Bicentennial Summer with thoughtful reflections.

Everyone shared favorite moments and themes that resonated, and it felt both nostalgic and deeply connecting — like picking up right where we left off.