WAYNE — Cary Memorial Library will welcome Cecilia Croft Clanton as she shares her new book “Cotton Mathis-Journey to Memphis” at 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 26, at the Williams House, across from the library, 17 Old Winthrop Road.

Clanton’s talk will focus on her firsthand witness to the aftermath of one of the days that changed America forever: April 4, 1968, when Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis. Clanton will also share insights to her book, have a question/answer session and sign copies of her newly released book.

News reporter Cecilia Clanton grew up near Memphis, and returned to her love of writing six years ago while spending time in Wayne. Much of the book’s extensive research and writing was done while in Wayne.

This historical fiction book follows Cotton Mathis as he joins the National Guard and is plunged into the midst of the civil rights movement and the racial tensions raging across the nation. When Cotton is deployed to Memphis, he encounters a black war hero and the soldier’s remarkable, book-loving father — a man who reignites Cotton’s long buried dreams. Faced with personal tragedy, betrayal and overwhelming anger in the aftermath of Dr. King’s assassination, Cotton faces a life-changing decision. Will he forgive and move on, or will he allow his family’s ghosts to haunt him forever?

A reception with light refreshments will follow this author talk. FMI: Cary Memorial Library, 207-685-3612 or Holly Stevenson, 207-685-9005.

Cecilia Clanton

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