…Featuring a unique cast of characters, unusual occurrences, and several surprise endings.
Early Reviews of Mammoth Falls’ Unforgettable Summer
“I loved this book. The writing drew me in, the life stories of the people who live in Mammoth Falls were heartwarming, and the history and connections between the residents created a sense of community and belonging. This book was, for me, an anecdote to isolation, even for those of us who live in small towns.” KL
“I love your new book! I really like how you included/developed so many characters. It’s interesting to see how you weave them in and out of the story – almost like some are Red Herrings and it’s up to the reader to see if they can figure out which ones are more central. I think you captured life in a small town so well…everybody is interested in everyone else’s business and everybody always has an opinion.” AS
“Mammoth Falls” is reminiscent of the work of Sherwood Anderson. One small, seemingly placid community in which ordinary lives — if ordinary is the right word — are linked, as are the tales in this short-story sequence. This is a town with secrets, but filled with human feelings transmitted like leaves falling from the trees that line the streets and sidewalks. In a culture of car chases, the novelty of this novel is in the book’s quiet but unforgettable characters, who live in a community called Mammoth Falls.” RL
“Really a wonderful, fun and intriguing tale of townspeople and town. So many great little surprises and twists and fun mysteries throughout. You did a terrific job with the variety of characters and the descriptions of their physical traits and their personalities and the various shenanigans and thoughtful events. Great dialogue, too. Lots of chuckles and guffaws throughout and I cried at the end. I have finished reading your book but I am reluctant to leave your town and the population of Mammoth Falls.” PRG
*****
Excerpt:
Preface: You’re Now Entering Mammoth Falls, Ohio (Population: 62,701)
As the summer of 2022 approached, the citizens of Mammoth Falls, Ohio were divided. They either eagerly anticipated their upcoming Sesquicentennial (pronounced ses·qui·cen·ten·ni·al) celebration or complained about it. Some critics argued that the town had other priorities than holding a three-day extravaganza recognizing the 150th birthday. That was just one of the hotter topics on the town’s summer menu. Some were of minor import, while others were more noteworthy. Carl Stark, the popular Mammoth Falls historian and story teller, collected most of the local happenings.
In case you haven’t heard of Mammoth Falls, the Chamber of Commerce directory describes it with a modicum of hyperbole. For example: “A picturesque town located between Columbus, Ohio’s most populous city, and the more rural Zanesville. Named after the majestic waterfalls that flow into the popular Buckeye Lake, Mammoth Falls is nestled in a lush green valley and surrounded by an ancient forest. Home to approximately 63,000 contented residents who enjoy a unique, welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. Mammoth Falls is ideal for raising happy families and operating successful businesses. Come for a visit, and you’ll stay for a lifetime.”
The directory doesn’t explain that Mammoth Falls was once a much brighter star on the map—an almost thriving economic center. Its appeal dimmed after two major manufacturing plants closed and the unanticipated rerouting of the state highway. There was an inevitable reduction in the flow of wealthy tourists, potential homeowners, and businesses. Town leaders gradually settled for a lower ranking on the regional influence meter, but it wasn’t an easy transition.
The Chamber of Commerce also didn’t see the point in noting that Mammoth Falls is similar to many other Midwestern towns. It is a collection of mostly ordinary people and their often-contrary opinions regarding politics, future growth plans, child-rearing, and “acceptable” homeownership behavior.
I had the privilege of visiting Mammoth Falls in the summer of 2021. I spent several months observing residents and listening to many of Carl Hillmore’s fascinating anecdotes. Most of the people I met were interested in the collection of stories I planned to write, which is what you’re now reading. Full disclosure: I employed some “creative license” with a few stories. I ask that you accept the Suspension of Disbelief concept that poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge introduced in 1817. It refers to when a writer interjects a “human interest and a semblance of truth” into a seemingly unusual tale. The reader hopefully reserves judgment regarding any apparent implausibility. In this case, you can overlook that I wasn’t a direct witness to all the events.
I should also point out that many of those I talked to wanted me to stress that Mammoth Falls is usually a peaceful and harmonious place to live. After finishing this collection of their stories, perhaps you can help judge if they are right.
Please Note: Mammoth Falls’ Unforgettable Summer is now available as an Amazon e-book (See Find the Stories).
