A Simplified Map of the Real World
Here’s something to celebrate: Stevan Allred and his short story collection, A Simplified Map of the Real World, being published by Forest Avenue Press.
I celebrate this book for so many reasons, most being that it is a spectacular collection of linked stories filled with love and heartbreak, the dark side of being human, the light that can fill simple moments, and the many ways we try to find connection. And it’s about a small town. Of course I celebrate that. Plus in these stories there is not a wasted word or a poorly placed sentence. Stevan knows how to WRITE.
He also knows how to teach and that’s how I first met him and Joanna Rose, the Pinewood Table teachers. I studied with them for three years and not only did I grow as a writer, my community of writers grew as well. This is another reason I celebrate, that community, created at that table and extended beyond it, the generosity of each writer for the other to grow and learn and become better at what we do, and to be endlessly excited for each other when our work comes out in print. When it comes to Stevan Allred, we already know what a powerhouse writer he is, now we want the whole world to know.
C’mon out and hear Stevan read, come early and watch your book being made at the Espresso Book Machine. The celebration begins with the launch of A Simplified Map of the Real World at Powell's Books, 7:30 pm Thursday, September 12th. If you can't make it to the reading, you can buy the book at the usual places.