The ArtScape column typically highlights visual art happenings in the area, and I’m working on one of those as well.
But I’ve had several authors send information about their recently released books, so I thought I’d add them here.
In December, a lot of my friends posted the results of their literary challenge for the year. Many had a certain number of books they wanted to read while others read according to category – sort of a bingo card approach. One of those bingo squares was to read a book by a local author.
Here are a few titles published in 2024 by some Augusta area authors.
Cecelia Butler Johnson and her daughter, Makeda Tené Ekakitie, wrote “Beyond the Diagnosis: Surviving and Thriving with Multiple Myeloma and Breast Cancer,” exploring Johnson’s 22-year journey with multiple myeloma and breast cancer.
The book offers “a rare glimpse into the life of a woman who has surpassed the typical survival
expectations for this formidable disease. The book weaves a dual narrative that explores the depths of a mother’s fight against cancer and a daughter’s journey alongside her, providing a unique, two-generational perspective on resilience and survival,” according to a news release.
The book was added to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s website as suggested reading.
“Our team appreciated the comprehensive nature of your book, and how it thoughtfully touches on so many aspects of the cancer experience,” according to an email Johnson received from LLS.
Dana Harris, a Columbia County resident who retired as an educator and principal with the Richmond County School System, has written a children’s book called “The ABCs of Making the World Go Round Thru the Lens of a Child.”
Her first children’s book “was inspired by my two adorable grandchildren” London, 11, and Bryce, 7, she wrote in an email.
“My book is a heartwarming and insightful exploration of the fundamental virtues that shape our lives as seen through the innocent and perceptive lens of childhood. What sets this book apart is its ability to resonate with readers of all ages, inviting them to rediscover the simple joys and profound truths that often elude us in the hustle and bustle of modern life,” Harris wrote.
Aaron Kinzer has also written children’s books designed to empower and inspire.
“All You Can Be” is book about “planting good seeds in the fertile minds of children so that they can imagine being anything they dream to be,” according its synoposis.
He’s also created two Affirmations for Children coloring books that are available in both English and Spanish.
North Augusta’s Justin Harsey published his first book, “The King of Versera. Book 1: Rise.”
The fantasy novel is set in Vesera which is “a kingdom in need of a new king. The search leads to a secluded island where an unlikely young man is found that is a descendant of the previous king,” according to the synopsis.
Charmain Z. Brackett, the publisher of Augusta Good News and Inspiring: Women of Augusta, has covered Augusta’s news for more than 35 years and is a Georgia Press Association award winner. Reach her at charmain@augustagoodnews.com. Sign up for the newsletter here.
