2024 Book of the Year
WOFFORD’S BLOOD
By Donna Coffey Little
Wofford’s Blood (Mercer University Press 2024) is a stunning work of historical fiction based on the life of James Daugherty (J. D.) Wofford, a half White, half Cherokee, who became a conductor and interpreter on the Trail of Tears. Outstanding research underlies this tale, set up as a series of interviews with Wofford. The novel captures the angst of a relatively unknown historical figure caught between two cultures, considered as an outsider at times by each. Wofford shares Cherokee rituals, myths, legends, and prayers that were part of his life. Kudos to Donna Coffey Little for providing a voice to Native Americans who deserve to be more widely understood and heard.
Donna Coffey Little
Read our interview with Donna Coffey Little here.
2024 Poetry Book of the Year
Glass Cabin
by Tina Mozelle and Braziel and James Braziel
Glass Cabin (Pulley Press April 2024) is a singularly beautiful book, radiant with life-affirming prose and poetry from husband-and-wife team. In alternating voices, Jim and Tina tell a vivid, engaging story of how they built a cabin constructed in the wilds of Alabama. These poems explore the work it takes to measure cuts for stairs, to haul water-one ton at a time-up the side of the mountain, and to write. It is also a meditation on hope, on frustration, and their place in the wilder parts of the world. Congratulations, Jim and Tina!
Tina Mozelle Braziel
James Braziel
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