Dr. Rhonda England-Breedlove’s ENG 261 class was visited by noted author Silas House on Monday, April 4
. The class has been reading the book “Clay’s Quilt” and were excited for a chance to hear the author speak.
Mr. House began by addressing the large crowd about his past and current writing projects. He discussed how he became interested in writing the book, and how he came up with the ideas for subsequent books. After discussing each of his books (including his most recent project: editing an unfinished manuscript by late author James Still into the newly released Chinaberry), House took questions from the audience. Although the large classroom was entirely full, I was afraid that the students might be too shy or nervous to question the author. I was pleased to see that this was not the case at all! The students asked about everything from “were the characters real or made up” to asking for writing tips. The students were also eager to mention people and events in the books which rang true for them in their own lives. It seems that House succeeded in his attempt to write a book set in Eastern Kentucky which accurately showcased the people, including their strengths and weaknesses.
Silas House had another engagement, and so had to cut the questioning period short. He did, however, stay longer to sign books and chat with anyone who wished to talk to him.
If you would like to read some works by this well-regarded Kentucky author, come to the library!! We have the following books by Silas House:
Clay’s Quilt PS 3558 .O8659 C58 2001
Parchment of Leaves PS 3558 .O8659 P37 2003
Coal Tattoo PS 3558 .O8659 C63 2005
Something’s Rising: Appalachians Fighting Mountaintop Removal TD 195 .C58 H68 2009
Eli the Good PS 3558 .O8659 E45 2009
Stop by the library today to read these or other Appalachian classics!
