Participation Type
Reading
Session Title
Restitching Our Thoughts About Appalachia and Ourselves: Readings from the Anthology of Appalachian Writers, Charles Frazier Volume IX
Session Abstract or Summary
Charles Frazier, author of Cold Mountains, Thirteen Moons, and Night Woods, is a writer interested in exploring human values from diverse worlds and spaces—particularly Native American and Celtic—where the duality of spirit and matter are effaced and where there is an easier harmony between the human and natural landscapes. The writers who have been selected to be anthologized in the Charles Frazier volume of the Anthology of Appalachian Writers, volume nine, have these characteristics in common with Frazier. Anthology editor and award winning writer Natalie Sypolt will moderate a reading of the best of the Frazier volume, including Jessica Salfia reading “The Skin that Fits,” winner of the WV Fiction Competition judged and selected by Frazier; Weatherford Award Winner Gretchen Moran Laskas reading “The Honor Guard,” a poignant and heart-breaking story about misguided morality and prejudice; and WV Poet Laureate Marc Harshman reading some of the best of his poems anthologized in the volume: “Grandma’s Wake,” “Halloween Storm,” “Politics,” “The Match,” “Witness,” and “Mother, Kafka, Consuming Self.” Three of the finest writers in the region will help us delve into the recesses of our deepest thoughts about ourselves, our community, and the diverse world around us.
Presentation #1 Title
Gretchen Moran Laskas, Fiction Writer
Presentation #1 Abstract or Summary
Gretchen Moran Laskas will read "The Honor Guard"
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #1
Laskas is author of Weatherford Award novel The Midwife's Tale and the Miner's Daughter, as well as stories in anthologies and journals.
Presentation #2 Title
Jessica Salfia, Fiction Writer
Presentation #2 Abstract or Summary
Jessica Salfia will read the West Virginia Fiction Competition's first prize story, "The Skin that Fits."
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #2
Jessica Salfia is a teacher and writer, living in Martinsburg, WV.
Presentation #3 Title
Marc Harshman, Poet Laureate of West Virginia
Presentation #3 Abstract or Summary
Harshman will read selected poems from the Anthology of Appalachian Writers
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #3
Marc Harshman is an award winning writer of children's books, celebrated poet, and Poet Laureate of West Virginia
Conference Subthemes
Diversity and Inclusion
Gretchen Moran Laskas, Fiction Writer
Gretchen Moran Laskas will read "The Honor Guard"
