North Carolina Bookwatch 2016 | UNC-TV

Author & professor Margaret Bauer's latest book looks at the impact of one of literature's strongest female characters – Scarlett O'Hara. Dr. Bauer looks at both the literary & the cinematic portrayals of the Southern belle & from those profiles she goes on to look at how the iconic character compares to similar heroines of literature.

Author & professor Robert Morgan's latest book is set during the Civil War. “Chasing The North Star” tells the story of a runaway slave, his struggle for freedom, & free-spirited slave girl who sets out to follow him in search of her own freedom. The spellbinding story of two teenage runaways in a terrifying time & place draws the reader in as it brings that world into sharp focus.

Author & retired General Daniel Bolger served in both Iraq & Afghanistan, where he commanded troops & participated in meetings with both top-level military & civilian players. General Bolger uses his unique perspective to assess these wars, from 9/11 to the final withdraw from the region, & what we have learned from the experiences.

Journalist & author Pam Saulsby's new book gently introduces young readers to the process military families experience on the return of a loved one from deployment. Through her feisty but fun main character, Ms. Saulsby helps families understand the situation returning servicemen & women may be in, & how their families – both adults & children alike – can prepare to welcome their loved one home.

Author Randy Johnson has written at length about the iconic Grandfather Mountain. In this definitive book, Mr. Johnson takes readers on a tour of the landmark mountain's history from its geological beginnings to its eventual establishment as a state park. Through photos & stories, Mr. Johnson shows how Grandfather has changed & been changed by the people of Western North Carolina & beyond.

The Asheville restaurant 12 Bones Smokehouse is a local institution whose creative barbecue is so popular that even President Obama eats there when he's in the area. Head Chef Shane Heavner shares the story of Mr. Obama's first visit to the restaurant, while he was still on the campaign trail, & talks about the experience of cooking for a president.

Author Patricia Bell-Scott's latest book tells the story of the brilliant writer-turned-activist, Pauli Murray, & her long friendship with Eleanor Roosevelt – a friendship that changed both of their lives. Ms. Bell-Scott draws on letters, journals, diaries, & other sources to present this close-up portrait of a friendship that helped alter the course of race, racism, & social justice in America.

Kristy Woodson Harvey's latest book centers on a grandmother & granddaughter in a family with a strong bond. Lynn "Lovey" White has spent 60 years married to her true love, with whom she has 5 daughters. She knows that, from time to time, everyone tells little white lies. Meanwhile, her always truthful granddaughter Annabelle has dumped her fiance to marry a musician.

Dr. Charles Thompson became so inspired by the Mexican workers who helped him harvest the crops on his blueberry farm & the tales they told, that he undertook a personal journey along the entire 1969 miles of the border. Along the way, he documented his travels with his camera, catching some very evocative moments. He explores the border & the challenges it presents for both nations.

Author John Hood presents the biography of former governor Jim Martin & shows how he helped shape public life in NC. Through interviews with top politicians & Governor Martin himself, Mr. Hood shares how the governor was a catalyst for fundamental change in North Carolina.