The books Southern indie booksellers are recommending to readers everywhere!

Language Arts & Disciplines

Joyride by Susan Orlean

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Joyride by Susan Orlean
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Aptly titled, this is a shimmering cruise through the ups and downs of Orlean’s writing career. Her love of writing shines through even in the cautionary tales. The appendix with several of her early pieces is a delightful bonus. If you love the behind-the-scenes world of writers, this is one for you.

Joyride by Susan Orlean, (List Price: $32, Avid Reader Press, Simon & Schuster, 9781982135164, October 2025)

Reviewed by Jan Blodgett, Main Street Books in Davidson, North Carolina

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1000 Words by Jami Attenberg

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1000 Words by Jami Attenberg
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1000 Words is a compulsively readable and truly inspiring book filled with encouragement from Jami and 50 other amazing authors. This book will make you want to write.

1000 Words by Jami Attenberg, (List Price: $19.99, S&S/Simon Element, 9781668023617, January 2025)

Reviewed by LeeAnna Callon, Blue Cypress Books in New Orleans, Louisiana

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1000 Words by Jami Attenberg

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1000 Words by Jami Attenberg
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Buy from your local indie.
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1000 Words is a guide for writers, but I think anyone interested in reading would truly enjoy this one. I loved the features from some of my favorite authors, and was especially touched by the tender exchange of letters between Jami Attenberg and Keise Laymon. This slim book packs a punch with thought-provoking questions that inspire creativity in writers and readers alike. Loved it!

1000 Words by Jami Attenberg, (List Price: $24.99, S&S/Simon Element, 9781668023600, January 2024)

Reviewed by Jessica Nock, Main Street Books in Davidson, North Carolina

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Spine Poems by Annette Dauphin Simon

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Spine Poems by Annette Dauphin Simon
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I love that the concept of this book seems so simple, but author and creator Annette Dauphin Simon turned it into something complex and spectacular. What fun it is to have these facts and quotes accompany the poems, especially with the beautifully composed photos. Spine Poems is funny, delightful, informative, and even touching at times. I can’t wait to put this book into the hands of every book lover I know!

Spine Poems by Annette Dauphin Simon (List Price: $27.99, Harper Design, 9780063208223, September 2022)

Reviewed by Johanna Albrecht, McIntyre’s Books in Pittsboro, North Carolina

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