‘Eastern Shore Shorts’ author Gail Priest to sign books at Browseabout June 9
Gail Priest, author of "Eastern Shore Shorts," a new collection of short stories set in Eastern Shore towns, will sign copies of her book from 2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, June 9, at Browseabout Books in Rehoboth Beach. The book contains stories set in Berlin, Cambridge, Chestertown, Chincoteague, Easton, Rock Hall, Salisbury, St. Michaels and Tilghman Island. It captures the unique feel and distinct culture of the Eastern Shore.
Priest's compelling characters cross paths as they meander through the charming towns, tranquil landscapes and winding waterways of the Eastern Shores of Maryland and Virginia. From the female barber who runs into an old flame to a man who's held out for love too long, and from a cranky dog trainer to a meddling mother of the bride, the well-drawn characters bring the stories to life.
For those wanting to make a day trip or weekend visit while enjoying the book, "Eastern Shore Shorts" includes a road trip map showing the towns featured in the stories, and an index of towns that highlights points of interest. Also included are recipes for foods mentioned in the book.
"I love the way the characters in these stories are connected and pop up in different ways – like real life here on the shore," said Jane Richstein, co-owner of Sundial Books in Chincoteague, Va. Rachel Simpkins from the Ward Museum of Wildlife Art in Salisbury, Md., echoed that sentiment, describing the book as a "collection of stories that reflects the unique character of these Eastern Shore towns, and the intricately woven relationships of the people that call these places home."
Priest is no stranger to the area and has written about it before. Her popular Annie Crow Knoll trilogy was based on the time she spent, over a nearly 20-year period, at Evergreen Knoll in Betterton, Md. Priest was captivated by the personality of the enclave, which is nestled along the shore of the Sassafras River at the headwaters of the Chesapeake Bay.
"I feel honored to be able to write about this area," said Priest. She said she feels a strong connection to the Eastern Shore region that has inspired her writing. "This is a very special place for me, and I hope that comes through in these stories. Whether you're in the heart of the Eastern Shore or the Eastern Shore is in your heart."
Readers may recognize the iconic art of Erick Sahler, whose work appears on the book cover. "I could think of no one better to convey the Eastern Shore," says Nancy Sakaduski, owner of the Lewes-based publishing company Cat & Mouse Press. "Erick's work is phenomenal, and it was a pleasure working with him to create the cover for 'Eastern Shore Shorts.'"
"Eastern Shore Shorts" contains nine stories, with titles such as "Crab Cake Tango," "Waterwoman," "Homeward Migration" and "Tidewater Wedding." Browseabout Books will accept advance orders for the book, which will be inscribed and signed by the author.
