NEWS

Davidson author Shawn Samuelson Henry

You have an opportunity to meet Davidson author, Shawn Samuelson Henry, as she speaks about her new novel, Made in Maine. Main Street Books will feature Shawn at a book launch for Made in Maine on Thursday, September 28 at 7:00 pm at The Hurt Hub at Davidson. Admission is free, but tickets are required. REGISTER HERE (by September 12).

Although classified as a Young Adult novel (defined as a book with the voice and point of view of teenage protagonists) Made in Maine explores serious themes. The book is set in a small town in northern Maine when the local mill closes.  With this closure, the economy and hope of the town collapse.  The story is told using alternating chapters between Hunter and Luna, the two protagonists of the book. When a tragic accident occurs in the town, they are forced to work together as the unlikely leaders of a fundraising project in an attempt to make meaning from the senseless disaster. Made in Maine tackles the issues of addiction, homophobia, and the power of community. 

This is not just a book for young adults. Because it touches on values that we all share – a desire to be loved and the need for a sense of purpose – it would make a Book Club selection that would generate thoughtful discussions.

Shawn loves the power of words and how they can move people. She has taught students of all ages from middle-schoolers to adults. Shawn is also a playwright, novelist, and short-story author. She has lived in eleven states and three countries and is keenly aware of the significance of place in literature. Her prizewinning plays have been produced in many different venues from Seattle to Nova Scotia.

Shawn and her husband, Peter Henry, live in Davidson. They have three children – two in college and one in high school.