Lexington Book Fest panel to discuss race, history, identity and insights

The Lexington Book Festival in North Carolina is set to host a compelling panel discussion titled "Looking Through The Lens of the American Past and Present," featuring esteemed authors Jeffrey Blount and Rebecca Bruff. This event is scheduled for Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 3 to 3:45 pm in the Black Box Theatre. lexingtonbookfestival.org

Both authors have crafted narratives centered on Black men who confront and overcome adversity in the American South, albeit during different historical periods. Rebecca Bruff's novel, Trouble the Water, is inspired by the real-life story of Robert Smalls, a man born into slavery in Beaufort, South Carolina. Bruff's work poignantly depicts Smalls' big journey from enslavement to becoming a Civil War hero and influential civic leader. The novel delves into themes of courage, freedom, and resilience, shedding light on a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in American history.

Jeffrey Blount, an acclaimed author and Emmy-winning television director, offers contemporary perspectives in his writings. His works often explore the complexities of race, identity, and personal growth in modern America, providing readers with insightful reflections on the ongoing challenges and triumphs within the Black community. Blount’s latest novel, Mr. Jimmy From Around the Way (Beaufort Books), has taken the literary world by storm, earning the 2024 National Indie Excellence Award for African American Fiction, the 2024 Next Generation Indie Book Award for African American Fiction, the 2024 NYC Big Book Award for General Fiction, and the 2024 American Book Fest Best Book Award for African American Fiction.

The panel promises to be an enriching experience, offering attendees a chance to engage with narratives that bridge the past and present, highlighting the enduring spirit of individuals who navigate and challenge societal constraints. Through their discussion, Bruff and Blount are expected to provide profound insights into the historical and contemporary experiences of Black men in the American South, fostering a deeper understanding of the region's complex social fabric.

The Lexington Book Festival, taking place at the Arts Davidson County building in downtown Lexington, is a free event open to the public, celebrating the joy of reading and the power of storytelling.

Attendees are encouraged to participate in this and other sessions to connect with authors and fellow literature enthusiasts.