Shelby County Arts Council’s 2015 Visiting Writers Series launches in August

Story by Lindsay Dyess

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Looking for your next favorite writer? Look no further than the Shelby County Arts Council. Literature takes center stage with the 2015 Visiting Writers Series. If you have not been to an author talk and book signing yet, there is still time! Meet writers, listen to a brief talk and have all your questions answered in person.

Everyone at the SCAC loves a good book and is dedicated to sharing the talents and gifts of people around us. This year’s series, which is funded in part from a grant from the Alabama Humanities Foundation, features writers from across Alabama. Discover new talent in your own backyard. With writers from a variety of genres, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

On Aug. 14, R. Kyle Hannah stops by with his latest novel in the Time Assassins series, “Assassin’s Gambit.” Along with serving in the military, Hannah has penned several short stories and three novels. As an avid reader of sci-fi and fantasy, Hannah was inspired to write his own fictional stories. “Assassin’s Gambit” weaves time travel, history, action and adventure in to one exciting novel.

Readers interested in American history will want to join us for J.M. Brennan’s talk about his book “The Class of ’39.” This work of historical fiction describes a time of drastic change in America’s history. As the first book of a four-part series, this story follows characters both real and fictional through their experience in air combat during World War II. Drawing from his family members’ and his own experiences serving in the military, Brennan puts together an enjoyable and thoughtfully written book. Stop by on Sept. 10for his author talk and book signing.

For fans of Young Adult literature be sure to check out Amy Strickland on Sept. 24. In Strickland’s Olympia Heights series classical mythology meets teenage drama. This four part series chronicles the adventures of a group of teens who discover they have the powers of the gods. If steampunk adventures are more what you are looking for, Strickland’s “Royer Goldhawk” series is sure to sweep you away!

Check out these talented writers and pick up one of their books along the way. Meet fellow readers, aspiring writers and people who have an appreciation for a good old-fashioned story. Each author talk and book signing begins at 6 p.m. and features a beverage reception. Grab your book club and head over to the Shelby County Arts Council!

For more information on events or classes, please visit Shelbycountyartscouncil.com or call 205-669-0044. Books from each author are available for purchase on Amazone.com or during the author talk and book signing. The Shelby County Arts Council is located at 104 Mildred Street in Columbiana.