History Book Festival to feature author of book on American West
The 2018 History Book Festival in Lewes will feature Peter Cozzens, author or editor of 17 books on the American Civil War and Indian Wars. His latest book is “The Earth is Weeping: The Epic Story of the Indian Wars for the American West,” which was recently published in paperback by Alfred A. Knopf. It is the recipient of the 2017 Gilder Lehrman Prize in Military History and was chosen by Smithsonian Magazine as one of the top 10 history books of 2016.
“The Earth Is Weeping” is a sweeping, definitive history of the battles and negotiations that destroyed the Indian way of life even as they paved the way for the emergence of the United States known today.
His presentation, slated for 3 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Lewes Public Library, is among 21 other free author events throughout the day at the multi-venue festival in downtown Lewes.
Jen Mason, co-chair of the History Book Festival, said, “When one of our authors [Quincy Troupe of ‘Miles & Me’] unexpectedly cancelled all of his September appearances, we were so excited and grateful that Peter Cozzens was available and willing to come to talk about this important book. Coincidentally, Mr. Cozzens had been slated to present at last year's inaugural festival when he received a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to tour abroad. I'm thrilled to get the chance to hear his presentation this year!"
Cozzens recently retired from a 30-year career as a foreign service officer with the U.S. Department of State. Prior to joining the foreign service, he served as a captain in the U.S. Army.
Cozzens will be interviewed by Deborah Grosvenor, who heads the Grosvenor Literary Agency. Grosvenor has more than 25 years’ experience in the book publishing business as an agent and editor. During her career, she has edited or represented several hundred nonfiction books. As an editor, Grosvenor acquired Tom Clancy’s first novel, “The Hunt for Red October.” Today she focuses on narrative nonfiction, especially with a historical context, including the work of Cozzens.
The History Book Festival, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Sept. 28 and 29, will bring best-selling authors of new, notable historical fiction and nonfiction to Lewes. Last year’s festival attracted over 1,000 visitors who enjoyed a mix of author presentations, interviews, and panel discussion - all with audience Q&As and book signings to follow. The festival kicks off Sept. 28, with a sold-out ticketed keynote presentation. All author presentations on Saturday are free, with seats available on a first-come basis at four presentation sites. For further details, go to www.HistoryBookFestival.org.
