I feel like a father awaiting a new child. My newest book, Fried Chicken & Wine is about to hit the press and will ship on November 2nd. I’ll get lots of boxes a few days after that. And the books will be officially on sale.
I sat in bed last night trying to think about how to describe the book. “Different” might be a good word to start with. Most people know me as “Marshall Ramsey, Editorial Cartoonist.” Fried Chicken & Wine does have several of my drawings in it — but they are illustrations for the 71 short stories that I’ve written. Some of the tales are funny. Some are moving. Others bring hope. All have characters who find unique ways to unravel the challenges of life. The stories are very personal — and yet they aren’t about me. Most are set in this unique state we know as Mississippi, although New York City, The Smokies, San Diego, Washington D.C. and Atlanta all make cameos. Laughter, hope and redemption are ingredients that make up the seasoning of the literary gumbo.
The stories vary. The Mustard Seed is a story of hope for a man struggling to reinvent himself after his career has been turned on end. It’s a story that has spread around the country on the internet during this crazy economy we’re surviving. If Sherman Attacked Atlanta Today is a funny story about if the Battle of Atlanta occurred today. The Bottle Tree is a story about true love. Up in the Delta sky is also about love and the need to heal. The Final D-Day salutes a forgotten soldier. The Legend of Winston the Whitetail Deer features a local deer from Kosciusko (because I like saying Kosciusko) who saves Christmas. The Amazing Game tells the life of a father and son as a football game. And of course, there are several stories featuring Banjo the dog, my beloved Border Terrier who died this summer. Requiem for a Terrier is his obituary.
Banjo’s companionship and love is the golden thread that runs through all these stories. As I struggled to reinvent myself, he did what a good dog always does – he was there.
Many of the stories just came out of the blue — true Godsends. My best ideas always come like that. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Order today at www.lemuriabooks.com
Congratulations Marshall! I can’t wait to own it.
Yes! Just in time for Christmas gifts!
I’m excited!
Buying the book will not be as difficult as getting a signed copy, hope a book signing is planned for Square Books in Oxford or Reed’s in Tupelo. Take care & continue to be inspired.
Where and when can we buy the book? Do you have any book signings set up in the Jackson metro area? Can’t wait!
The book will be here the first week of November. I will some signings up. As soon as they are locked in stone, I will announce them (frequently). Promise.
Do I order copies from B&N locally or Amazon or…? They will go nicely with Keith Harkin debut album for Christmas and birthday gifts.
I’ll post ordering info next week. Don’t worry. I’ll make it easy to get a copy.
I am so excited–can’t wait to get a copy for myself & some for Christmas presents!!!
Woohoo!
Marshall,
Seems like yesterday you were pushing a broom at Pope. Great to see you so successful. Luke keeps us posted. My husband, Jim worked in Jackson when I met him, has a sister in Kosciusko and we lost a beloved dog last year. Small world. Looking forward to reading your book and best wishes.
Sherry (used to be Sack) Hardage
Hi! I’m Dean Miller’s new wife. Do you have any more copies of Fried Chicken and Wine? I would like to get one for Dean.
Thx!
Melinda