features local authors
Big Bend, an Austin serial killer and Texas vampires chronicled
Local authors Joe Burgess, Krystal Alanis Young and Thomas Edwards discussed their books and the art of writing at May’s “Taylor Talks” series at the Taylor Public Library.
Sponsors said the talk at the library, 801 Vance St., is part of a continuing series of city events honoring Taylor’s 150th birthday this year. The panels are held 6-7 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month.
Library Director Amy Keyes said the written word is honored because it preserves knowledge, imagination and shared human experience.
“But when we honor local authors, we take that respect one step further – we honor our own community’s voice,” Keyes said.
Each author’s work reflects a different genre. Burgess compiled photographs and memories for his book “Big Bend: Through the Lens of Glenn Burgess,” a story that honors his father, his father’s photography and the times they spent together.
As the current president of the Friends of the Moody Museum, Burgess presented his book at the Taylor museum earlier this year in a recorded event that can be viewed on YouTube @ MoodyMuseum.
A self-proclaimed history buff, Young has lived in Central Texas for 10 years.
Young wrote a historical fiction novel “The Annihilation of Austin” about the first-known serial killer in the capitol city in the late 1800s.
Young, whose website is yourfavoritehistorian. com, said she is busy searching cemeteries for her next story idea.
Edwards writes horror. He is a long-time crime reporter and journalist for more than 40 years, and is now executive editor of the Taylor Press’ parent company, Granite Media Partners.
“Daughters Drear: From the Files of John Blackwood” combines Edwards’ love of reporting and fantasy in a horror novel set in San Antonio.
All three books are available in the local authors’ collection at the library.
“Daughters Drear” can be purchased at Barnes & Noble or online at Amazon. To learn more about “Daughters Drear” and Edwards, visit daughtersdrear.com.
“The Annihilation of Austin” is available on Amazon.
“Big Bend: Through the Lens of Glenn Burgess” is sold at Barnes & Noble and locally at Curio Mrvosa Books and More, 114 Main St.
Keyes invites the public to attend the Taylor Talks series, which will continue for the rest of the year.
“Each of our guests will present a unique perspective on Taylor’s history. Come join us,” Keyes said.
In June, Taylor Talks will feature a speaker from Samsung Austin Semiconductor. Other upcoming topics in the series include barbecue, agriculture, Hispanic heritage and the Taylor Police Department.
For more, visit taylortx.gov/ Calendar or call the library at 512352- 3434.
