Writers to connect with readers on Authors Day
By Maureen Robertson
Response to Friends of Ramona Library’s request for local writers to participate in its first Authors Day at the Library has been tremendous, event chairman Chuck LeMenager said on Monday.
“It looks like a big event,” said LeMenager. “We have a dozen authors already.”
The public will have the opportunity to meet and talk with the authors in the Ramona Library Community Room, 1275 Main St., from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 21. The writers also will sign copies of their books.
Among Ramona authors scheduled to participate are Roy Toft, internationally renown nature photographer frequently featured in National Geographic magazine. The Ramonan is author of “OSO, Where the Rainforest Meets the Sea.”
Ramona resident Mimi Kirk, who earned the title of “Sexiest Vegan over 50,” will talk about her book, “Live Raw, Raw Food Recipes for Good Health and Timeless Beauty.”
Another Ramona author, Ralph Cates, will discuss his top-selling mystery thriller, “Black October,” and his soon-to-be-released “The Phoenix Agenda.” He writes from his home in San Diego Country Estates.
Noted Indian historian Richard Carrico, who grows grapes on his Mussey Grade Road property, wrote “Strangers in a Stolen Land, Indians of San Diego County” and produced a book on Ramona for the “Images of America” series.
LeMenager will be among the authors. His trilogy on backcountry history features Ramona, Julian, San Diego Country Estates, and Barona. He is also author of “Flying After 50, You’re Not Too Old to Start.”
Other Ramona and area authors will be at Authors Day to talk about their books and publishing experiences.
“We will have some established authors as well as up-and-coming authors,” LeMenager said.
LeMenager presented the idea of Authors Day at the Library to the Friends. He patterned it after events put on by Read Local San Diego, an organization with a mission to encourage reading by connecting readers with authors from their communities.
Rather than ask Read Local to organize an event in Ramona, LeMenager decided “We could do it ourselves — and we’ve had a good response.”
Committee members working with LeMenager are Friends members Racheal Gilmore, Anna Mitchell, Marta Zarrella, and Dr. Michael Barker.
There will be light refreshments and music. Admission is free. All are welcome.