Cocktail Reception and Book Talk with Jeffrey Blount (Sponsored by Ray and Diane McPhail)

Join us at a beautiful home overlooking the mountains that produce the famous Bear Shadow for a discussion with Jeffrey Blount about his award-winning novel The Emancipation of Evan Walls. The novel is a thought-provoking, painful and often shocking story that gives the reader “a poignant and profound witness to the complexities and dynamics of racism, identity, and courage.” Evan is a black child growing up in the racially charged 1960s in a small rural Virginia town. Inspired to overcome the racism and class status imposed on blacks, he dreams of a life bigger than that lived by most everyone he knows and is resented by friends and family for his aspirations. Among the smartest in his class, Evan becomes a target of white kids threatened by the forced integration of their schools. Caught in this racial crossfire, Evan is often alone and bewildered. Only the love of his great grandmother and another important mentor keeps him on track. Together, they help Evan find perspective and peace. ​

Location:  Private Residence. Address and further details will be provided to registered attendees closer to the date of the program.