Blue Apple Books’ sessions vary from downhome to classics
MADISON – Subject matter ‘will do a 180’ in upcoming sessions at Blue Apple Books, but the interesting presentations will be right on track.
“We welcome author Jeff Barry for his first book event in the Madison/ Huntsville area,” bookstore owner Robin Dauma said. “His book, ‘Go To Hell Ole Miss,’ has already been a top seller for us.”
“We’re thrilled that Jeff has agreed to come from Chattanooga on Saturday, July 26 for a meetand- greet / book signing event,” Dauma said.
“Go to Hello Ole Miss,” refers to the blunt, defiant chant by rivals of the University of Mississippi (not exclusively but frequently screamed by Mississippi State University students).
Set in Mississippi hill country in the early 1970s, the book asks, “To what lengths will a father go to save his daughter?”
Big John, a former Prisoner of War in World War II, thinks women are smarter than men. The three women in his life agree, especially when he brags about knowing more Shakespeare than anyone else in Hope Springs, Miss.
Big John is overly proud of only seven words by Shakespeare that he knows: “The prince of darkness is a gentleman.” Sadly, Big John and his wife learn their beloved daughter has been beaten severely by the man that Big John pressured her to marry. Big John needs only three words: ‘prince,’ ‘darkness’ and ‘gentleman.’
At its heart, “Go to Hell Ole Miss” is a historical family saga of hope and hardship, redemption and revenge, faith and doubt. It’s also a compelling Southern tale with characters that become people who make you laugh, cry and think.
“2025 marks the anniversary of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday. Join us as we celebrate the life and legacy of Jane Austen who continues to inspire readers,” Dauma said.
On July 29 from 4 to 6 p.m., Madison Public Library will pay respects to Austen. Amy Krafcik, a retired English teacher, will give an introduction. The audience then can enjoy a scene from “Christmas in Pemberley” by Theater Huntsville.
Next, the program will have a trivia time about Austen. Blue Apple Books will have a selection of Austen’s books for sale. Light refreshments will be served. Madison Friends of the Library is sponsoring this event.
South & Pine and Blue Apple Books’ address is 14 Main St., Suites B and C in downtown Madison. For more information, visit shopsouthandpine. com.
