Laughter and Tears

About the Book

This wonderful collection of true-life tales reflects the joys, sorrows and wit of the generous and hearty residents of the no-so-sleepy historic village of Cumberland Furnace situated in the hills and hollows of rural Tennessee.

They "register Democrat, vote Republican" and practice common sense ignoring the government to the best of their abilities.

About the Author

These light essays of rural life were written while I was engaged in the more serious effort of writing We Were Innocents (University of Illinois Press, 1999). I continue to write my essays. I also do whatever my bride of twenty-three years tells me to and rock, as permitted, on the front porch.