Author to sign new book on Civil War

Arlene Showalter has added to the literature available about the infamous Civil War prison located in Salisbury with the publication of her new novel, “Butternut Tears.” Showalter will be the guest author at the Literary Bookpost Saturday Salon on Feb. 4, 1-3 p.m. During the Salon, Showalter will hold a meet and greet with attendees while discussing and signing copies of “Butternut Tears.”

The Civil War involved great battles, renowned generals and thousands of steadfast soldiers. But what of the mothers, sisters, wives and children who remained behind?

In Showalter’s novel, “Butternut Tears,” meet Clara Maxwell, who knits socks for the army and feeds enemy prisoners alongside her compassionate aunt, Mrs. Maxwell. Mrs. Maxwell faces and conquers her own bitterness of war by tending to wounded soldiers and sewing uniforms. And then there is Jimmy, who transfers the wounded to the local hospitals and becomes a prison guard. These three tell the story of many actual events of that war, but particularly those affecting Salisbury.

Showalter developed a passion for history, especially the Civil War, when she visited Gettysburg at the age of 13. In 2008, she moved from Pittsburgh to Salisbury, and learned a prison had been located within the city limits. Pondering how local residents would feel about having the enemy confined so close to their homes, she visited the Rowan County Library for information, and the seed for “Butternut Tears” was planted.

Literary Bookpost is located at 110 S. Main St. in Downtown Salisbury. For additional information about this event, call 704 630-9788 or visit www.literarybookpost.com.

Paranormal book and romance

Do you find yourself wondering if is there life after the Twilight series or the Sookie Stackhouse series? The answer is yes. Join the Kananapolis branch of Cabarrus Public Library for a Paranormal Book Night. Enjoy a spooktacular night and get recommendations for other paranormal books that you can really sink your teeth into. You may even win a free paranormal book. The event is Thursday at 6 p.m. For more information call 704-920-1180.

Looking for warm reads this Valentine’s Day? Three authors of inspirational romance will be at the Kannapolis Library to talk about their writing experiences and their books. Join Dora Hiers, Myra Johnson and Jennifer Hudson Taylor for an evening of romance and books. All three authors will answer questions and books will be available for purchase. This is a free event and is sponsored by the Friends of the Kannapolis Library. The event is Tuesday, Feb. 7 at 6 p.m. For more information call 704-920-1180.