Local author hosting book release event

Author Tonya Lanier has written a new book about some Davidson County legends.
{Contributed photo}

On Sunday, June 13 Tonya Lanier will celebrate the release of her book,  Lost in the Shuffle II. An event will be held from 2 p.m. until  3 p.m. at Breeden Amphitheatre located at 333 S. Main St. in Lexington. It will be hosted by Rev. Sherise Lindsay. The speaker is Rev. Paul Milton R. and Anthony Fuller will DJ.

Lanier’s first book, Lost in the Shuffle I, was written to inform others of the untold history of various residents of Davidson County. Lost in the Shuffle II is a continuation of Lost in the Shuffle I.  

“When I wrote the first book I wanted to sit down and talk with a few people who I didn’t know a lot about but who I see  often in the community,” Lanier stated. “I didn't know where they were born, where they grew up and if they were highly educated or had no education .”

Lanier said each individual has a different story that needs to be told. Persons featured in the book include “local legends” Patsy Bush, Dr. Lacy Caple, Lewis Michael, Sarah Reid, Louise Roman, Bobby Ricks and others who have impacted the community.

The author shared she wasn’t certain about writing a second book, however many people requested it.

“Somebody told me if I write another book, she would wanted to be in it. I found more than enough people to interview. I didn’t get around to everyone due to COVID-19. The book is more stories from our community that we should have documented in some form or fashion.”

In her interviews, Lanier was impressed by the amount of unknown history.

“Everybody I sat down with shared some information that I want to continue researching.”

The upcoming event will take place outside. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and or blankets for sitting. There won’t be a book signing. Books will be available for purchase at the event. Preorders can be made via email at thewritestuff12345@yahoo.com.

On Saturday, June 19, Lanier will have two book signing events:

• Evenbrooke Marketplace
  15 Murphy Drive
  Lexington, NC 27292
  11 a.m. until 1 p.m.

• Juneteenth Celebration
  4th St. Park
  412 E. 4th St.
  Lexington, NC 27292
  6 p.m. until 7 p.m.

For additional information, email sonshiners@lexcomnic.net or call (336) 470-1100.