Back from Mississippi, the MS Book Festival and fall in Montana

Happy fall everyone.

I’ve returned from a ten day visit to my home town, Jackson, MS. Since my return on September 18th, everyday in Montana has been blue skies, crisp mornings, leaves showing off brilliant colors, perfect for hiking with the two dogs I’m petting sitting. Thank goodness, because they are energetic. Over the two weeks I’ve been with them, and one more to go, we have formed a pack. They are at my feet as I write. When I get up to use the bathroom they will accompany me. I’m never lonely!

The motivation for a trip South was the Mississippi Book Festival, a day long event of author panels, book signings, exhibits, food and more. I reconnected with John, the owner of Lemuria Bookstore where I worked in the early 90’s. Lemuria remains one of my favorite bookstores known for author events, first editions and knowledgeable book sellers.

My favorite event at the MS book festival was the panel discussion with LeVar Burton (Reading Rainbow) and Southern author, winner of National Book Award, Jesmyn Ward. I’m a fan of just about anything Jasmyn writes, Salvage the Bones, The Men We Reaped A Memoir and her newest novel, Let Us Descend and more.
From the moment LeVar and Jasmyn walked on stage to a standing ovation, the energy of the auditorium was lifted. I was moved to tears many times throughout their talk. Attached is the link of their discussion: LeVar Burton in conversation with Jesmyn Ward
Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

I’ll keep this short. Time for our hike.

Thanks for reading,

Frances