The last two years have been full and rewarding. American Literary Nomads received three awards, and I launched two new novels: Aroostook Dreams, from the woods of northern Maine, and Sedona Dragons, a mystery set in Sedona.
Along the way, I took part in Explorers Club events, visited Arizona schools, and continued speaking about curiosity, exploration, and the stories behind my books.
This page gathers some of those recent highlights.
talking about Curiosity in arizona classrooms!
In 2025 and 2026, I visited Arizona schools to talk with students about curiosity, exploration, reading, and the power of story.
These classroom visits have become one of the most rewarding parts of my speaking life.
WINNER!
literary fiction
Maincrest Media Awards!
January 19th, 2026
American Literary Nomads received the Maincrest Media Award in Literary Fiction, adding to the book’s growing recognition across multiple award programs.
NEW book released
In January!
Set close to home, the novel draws on the landscapes, tensions, and local character of Sedona.
January 11th!
book
launch
Southwest Chapter Lecture Series
I was honored to help bring this series of scientific talks to Sedona and to stand behind one of The Explorers Club’s Expedition Flags.
The program reflected the Club’s long tradition of exploration, discovery, and public education.
The event also marked my 25th year as a member of The Explorers Club and my seventh year as Chair of the Southwest Chapter.
Sedona, Arizona — October 4 Mary D. Fisher Theatre
WINNER!
Memoir Category
Congratulations on Winning the International Impact Book Award!
(March 26th, 2025)
American Literary Nomads won the International Impact Book Award in the Memoir category in March 2025.
NEW book released In May!
A Mystery from the Woods of Northern Maine
Cinco de mayo!
book
launch
FINALIST!
Memoir Category
Congratulations on being a finalist in the Eric Hoffer Book Awards!
(May 6th, 2025)
American Literary Nomads was named a finalist in the Memoir category of the Eric Hoffer Book Awards.
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