Online for Authors Episode 7-19-25

​Breathing Dust: Why One Girl Refused to Run with Author Jann Alexander

​Hello, fellow book lovers! I’m Teri, your host on today’s thrilling journey through the pages of "Unspoken," an enthralling historical fiction novel by Jann Alexander. In this post, we'll delve deep into the motivations behind Jann's captivating storytelling, the meticulous research that enriches her narrative, and her vision for the future of Ruby Lee, her tenacious protagonist. Whether you're a history buff, a literary enthusiast, or simply looking for your next great read, there’s something here for everyone.

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Welcome to Hartless, Texas

During our recent podcast episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jann Alexander about her book "Unspoken." Set in 1935, in a mythical town in the Texas Panhandle called Hartless, this novel draws you into the challenging world of the Dust Bowl, where air itself becomes a foe. The story revolves around Ruby Lee, a resolute young girl determined to carve out a life amidst these harsh circumstances.

An Obsession with the Dust Bowl

Jann's fascination with the Dust Bowl began when she watched "Bound for Glory," a film about Woody Guthrie’s survival of the infamous Black Sunday dust storm. The vivid imagery stayed with her and inspired her to explore more about this turbulent period in history. Even after relocating to Texas, she found herself drawn to the rich historical tapestry surrounding this era.

The Craft of Historical Fiction

What sets "Unspoken" apart is the profound research that Jann put into her work. Ten years of exploration led her to accumulate a wealth of knowledge about Texas and the Dust Bowl. She used original photographs, first-person accounts, and Library of Congress documents to create an authentic backdrop for her narrative. Jann emphasizes the importance of accurately depicted historical settings while allowing fictional narratives to flourish within them.

Character and Creation

Ruby Lee is a fascinating blend of imagination and psychological realism, drawing partly from Jann’s observations of human behavior. This attention to character development ensures that readers see the characters not as mere figments but as entities with depth and personal motivations.

Themes That Transcend Time

One striking element about "Unspoken" is its exploration of themes that resonate even today—family dynamics, resilience in the face of adversity, and the concept of found family. Jann's portrayal of the Dust Bowl serves as a potent reminder of how history tends to repeat itself, urging readers to find empathy for the displaced and the disenfranchised.

An Ending Unbound

Unlike many novels, "Unspoken" does not tie up all its loose ends in a neatly tied bow. Jann believes that life is seldom that way and wants readers to engage with her story by envisioning their interpretations of the characters' futures. This open-endedness makes readers ponder and dream beyond the last page, invoking curiosity about the hinted sequels.

Look Forward to More Adventures

Worry not if questions linger after finishing "Unspoken," as Jann has confirmed more tales from the world of Hartless are simmering in her mind. Although she playfully dodges spoilers, there’s a promise that more stories, whether about Ruby Lee or other Hartless inhabitants, are on the horizon.

Jann Alexander invites you into her richly textured world with "Unspoken." Whether you’re a member of a book club or a solitary reader, the discussions this book ignites are as layered as the novel itself. I highly encourage you to grab a copy, dive into the world Jann has crafted, and share your impressions and thoughts.

Keep the conversation going through the Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook. There you will have a chance to win a free digital copy of Unspoken.

Thank you for joining us on this journey, and happy reading!

Purchase Unspoken on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4n2u7p7
Ebook: https://amzn.to/3FZrhR6



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