Southern Author Talks About Her Experience in the Jim Crow Era

Listen in as I talk with Stacia Moffett, the acclaimed author of the "Lost and Found in Tennessee" series. 

Stacia’s novels, including “The Missing Girl” and “Jessa is Back,” offer a compelling exploration of the South’s complex history, cultural dynamics, and enduring legacies. Born and raised on a small farm near Nashville, Stacia’s experiences growing up in the Jim Crow South deeply influenced her writing and her perspectives on racial and social justice.

Here are the questions I asked Stacia:

Reflecting on your childhood near Nashville on a small farm, how did rural life and your father's artistic spirit influence your worldview and writing?

·      How did the Jim Crow era shape your understanding of the South’s cultural and racial dynamics, both personally and in your writing?

·      How did witnessing segregation and white supremacy inspire the "Lost and Found in Tennessee" series?

·      Why is it important to address racial and social justice in literature today?

·      What message would you give to those who may not recognize ongoing racial injustices?

Before we move on, I am so appreciative of our sponsors and must thank them. Please support our sponsors and tell them you heard about them on Hilary Topper on Air. Special thanks to the Russo Law Group, P.C. - Long Island's Signature Estate Planning, Elder Law and Special Needs law firm, PlayTri - Swim, Bike Run! – a retail and online bike shop and multisport specialist, Medi-Dyne -  injury prevention and pain relief products and Vimazi- pace tuned running shoes.

·      Stacia, back to you. What are your thoughts on the rise of book bans, particularly those targeting race and identity?

·      Do you believe diverse narratives should remain accessible for all readers? Why or why not?

·      For readers unfamiliar with "The Missing Girl" and "Jessa is Back," can you set the stage and explain how the two books are connected?

·      Why is the friendship between the girls central to the story, and how does it reflect themes like resilience, loyalty, and social dynamics?

·      Can you talk about your vineyard in Washington and how it connects to your love of nature?

·      And finally, Stacia, how can our listeners get in touch with you or learn more about your books?

Thank you, Stacia, for being on the show! I’d also like to thank our sponsors once more. The Russo Law Group, P.C. - Long Island's Signature Estate Planning, Elder Law and Special Needs law firm, PlayTri - Swim, Bike Run! – a retail and online bike shop and multisport specialist, Medi-Dyne -  injury prevention and pain relief products and Vimazi- pace tuned running shoes. And last but not least, I’d like to thank our listeners for tuning in.

If you want more information on the show, visit our new website, hilarytopper.com or find us on Spotify, iTunes or Google Play. Have a great week and we’ll see you next time…

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