The Memory of Cotton

 The Memory of Cotton, by Ann K. Howley (originally published by Propertius Press)

Memories of family, dysfunctional and loving, with secrets stretching back a few generations revealed slowly. Shelby and her grandmother find a KKK robe in her great-grandfather’s trunk which sets off a series of events and revelations that ironically begin to heal old family wounds and finally confront the wrongs done. Beautifully written with strong characters and evocative settings.
Susan Weintrob, Next Generation Indie Book Awards Judge

Available for immediate purchase at the Apple Bookstore, Amazon, BN.com, Kobo, Smashwords, D2D, and wherever you get your book fix!

“My debut YA novel explores a little-known history of the Ku Klux Klan. It confronts explosive issues that are relevant today through the eyes of a teenage girl who wants to help her grandmother heal from the lifelong trauma she has suffered since she witnessed a hate crime as a child.” Ann K. Howley, author

Readers say…

“One of the richest stories I’ve read in the last few years. And the characters!! I think Ernest Hemingway (?) said, a writer should create real people, not characters and that is exactly what Howley has accomplished here-these characters are so real.”

“The characters in this book are believable, authentic, and relatable. The topics discussed are timely and important for teens and adults. While the subject matter is serious, Ann injects a wealth of humor and humanity into the story through her characters. I was hooked from the first line and I didn’t want the story to end. “

“The reader is immersed in tragedy, challenges you socially about your own beliefs all the while cheering for understanding and forgiveness for ALL of the characters. Howley is masterful in her approach to the protagonist while also providing a deep bench of other characters to care, cry and root for throughout the story.”

Advance praise…

“I was hooked from the first page. Ann K. Howley’s writing is beautiful and the story is well crafted. She has drawn three dimensional characters and painted a background that is mysterious, visual, and relatable. The message of the book is exceptional. Kids need to know about the lesser known prejudices and racist views of the Ku Klux Klan. This is a YA book that should be read in schools.” Carrie Lee Wilson, screenwriter

“The Memory of Cotton explores relevant issues in an engaging way for teens. The book balances heavy, discussion-worthy topics with small bits of comedic relief and wisdom-filled quotations. Her flawed characters are both relatable and believable. The best YA books are those that engage young readers and make them think critically about its plot and characters; The Memory of Cotton does just that.”  Anne DeGerolamo, middle level English Language Arts teacher

Ann K. Howley takes readers on a surprising, heart-wrenching, and often humorous journey that addresses a part of history that is sometimes being silenced.  A powerful and relatable story, The Memory of Cotton will prompt serious discussion on timely and sensitive issues. Anna Marie Gire, owner of Women’s Independent Press and founder of The Authors’ Zone