Author Talk: Peggy Konert

"The Holy Ghost and a Shine of Coal"

Local author Peggy Konert will do a book reading and signing.

This coming-of-age novel is a historical fiction piece that follows the life of June Ellen, a ten-year-old girl living in Paris, Arkansas, during the late 1940s. With a blend of humor and depth, she embodies both naivety and insight as she navigates the changing dynamics of coal mining families in the region following World War II. The narrative draws inspiration from the author's own family history, enriching the story with authentic experiences and emotions.

Book will be available for sale and signing.

About the author

Peggy Konert, born in Fort Smith, attended the University of Arkansas and the University of Kansas. She grew up with nearly 100 cousins in small German-Catholic communities in Arkansas’s River Valley, inspired by stories of her grandfather, a coal miner who died of Black Lung. A former Vista Volunteer, truck driver, food service director, adjunct professor, and clinical social worker, she is also an author, master gardener, and world traveler. Peggy lives on an urban farm in Fayetteville, AR. Her debut novel, A Shine of Coal, starring June Ellen, is her first published work and won the Arkansas SCBWI First Pages Contest in 2019.

All abilities are welcome. For disability accommodations, call 479.856.7250 or email questions@faylib.org 2-3 weekdays before a program. Plan your visit by viewing our building map and details on accessibility services.

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