Tragedy and Triumph, Elmira, New York, 1835—1865, Author: Kathrin Rudland

I do a lot of reading, usually what I consider to be worthwhile literature, the real thing — works of lasting merit; stories that inspire one to think, to feel, participate; stories that bring vivid images of another time and place; something that will endure through time. I believe Kathrin Rudland’s story falls into such a category. It is a meaningful piece of literature, on several levels.

The structure of the story is masterful. I was impressed with the manner in which the story was woven together. The author meticulously blended the characters and events, artfully maintained the linkages throughout the story — all done with clarity and natural, unaffected writing. I especially loved the quality of the prose assigned to the interactions between the main protagonists, Truman and Elizabeth. I also enjoyed the vernacular and carefully researched idiomatic expressions exchanged among the soldiers and their captors. I came to know each of the characters. I could feel and visualize their activities and conversations, and the physical surroundings. I was in the Baldwin library when Elizabeth and Truman first met, I was trying to get out of the well with Simon Denby, I was attuned to Naamah’s reasoning when the young slave girl took a stunning life-changing action, I was in the battle with Truman and Rooster, in the prison at Elmira, with the pain, suffering, and setbacks the prisoners endured.

Kathrin Rudland’s story is not encumbered by fluffy filler and needless affectation: but is a story told with raw simplicity and spare, flawless writing uniquely her own, writing that compels the reader to see the things she is describing. I found myself living this story, it was real to me; Kathrin Rudland has truly created something of lasting value. When an author brings the reader into their story they have accomplished something special.

Lou Jones

Author’s PLC Presentation

I thought everyone would enjoy reading Maxine’s favorable critique of our recent PLC Ladies’ Club presentation.
- Lou Jones

President’s Corner
By : Maxine Pepin
Have you ever been at church when your head suddenly drops or bobs and you quickly sit up pretending you really were not falling asleep? When a pastor uses storytelling throughout the sermon parishioners immediately sit up and take notice. Storytelling always demands attention and interest. We all thrive on good stories, they activate our imagination, they teach us lessons, and they allow us to escape to another dimension often taking on the role of one of the characters within the pages. As we savor good books, we sometimes wish they would never come to an end!
On April 18th the PLC members were honored and entertained with the presence of our own “Lake Country Authors.” Don Adams, George Heiring, Lou Jones, Joan Ungerleider and Gail Vail shared their love for writing as well as what drives them, what inspires them, and what they find most frustrating about the creative adventure. As with most fictional writers, these authors are inspired by their own real-life experiences. For instance, Don Adams relates storytelling to his growing up years in Southwest Georgia. George Heiring has incorporated his travel adventures into stories, poems and humorous essays. Lou Jones recreates his introspective nature which reflects his keen interest in the human condition and behaviors. Joan Ungerleider has combined short family reflections along with recipes passed on from family and friends. These recipes stimulate wonderful memories of times past. Gail Vail, artist and writer enjoys pairing stories and poems with interpretive paintings. Davis Temple (unable to attend) has been a guest author at PLC book clubs. His recent thriller is based on his experiences in the pharmaceutical industry.

For those who chose not to attend this luncheon, you missed out on a most entertaining, inspirational and informative program. You also missed the camaraderie and fellowship that permeates the atmosphere of these special occasions. All in attendance hailed and applauded this enlightening program. Thank you to Gail Vail who most professionally moderated this program. For more information, Google Lake Country Authors.
Within each of us there is a story, these do not have to be expressed in a novel, they can be written in small vignettes, in essays, in letters, in diaries to be passed on to future generations. Don’t let your story go untold!

"The Seasonal Heart" Released in Nov 2011

Posted By Gail Vail

The newest book, The Seasonal Heart released in November, 2011, is a collection of stories, poems and paintings about the holidays. It is an evocative book that the whole family will enjoy. The holidays are warmly set in the clear, cold months of winter and presented with eloquence and honesty. Here is a book to help you rediscover the heart of the season, one that offers ample pause for reflection, an abundance of laughter with space left for a tear or two. It is a collection of Christmas memories and perspectives that can help you revive yours. Written by George Heiring and edited and published by Gail Vail, the book includes full color paintings by Chris Ball, Shannon Candler, Cathy McIntire, Ked Murray, David Siffert, Sherry Turner, Sandra Witty and Gail Vail.

The book is available by contacting Gail Vail at gvail@plantationcable.net or at local retailers - Art of Oconee, Genuine Georgia (Greensboro) and Aurum Jewelry and Art.  The Seasonal Heart retails for $29.95 (plus $7 shipping/handling/tax).

And take a peak inside the pages of this captivating book:

Local poets win awards

Congratulations to George Heiring, Kathy Wright, Liz Howells, and Gay Williford. These members of the Greensboro Writers' Guild all won awards in the 2011 Georgia Poetry Society contests. What makes their accomplishments especially impressive is there were 331 entries, a record number of submissions. The poets will receive their awards at the January 21st quarterly meeting of the Poetry Society at Kennesaw State University. Congratulations to all.

Lou Jones
Georgia Poetry Society Contest Chairperson