Reading Downtown

Fayetteville has a wonderful history that dates back to the Colonial era, more than 250 years ago. In those days and for many years that followed, our history was primarily based downtown when we were Cross Creek. Through the years, our history has been expressed through art and literature. We have many authors who have roots in Fayetteville and, specifically, downtown.
Whether these are books by Fayetteville authors or stories about our history, they are all terrific reads. It’s amazing to see the literary talent we have had in our city and still have, and the history of our community is worth all of us knowing about it. You can add to your personal library with these books that have a great connection to Fayetteville.
There are books for young readers and others for all ages. One will give you a bit of the back story of life in Fayetteville, and one will give you a good history of our city to contemporary times. Another will showcase the talent in our local theater community. The children’s books not only highlight the talent of our local authors and illustrators but give children a special look at our town and encourage them to not be afraid.
1. Fayetteville, North Carolina: An All-American History by Emily Farrington Smith
The History Press, now part of Arcadia Publishing, is known for its books on local and regional history throughout the country. The company publishes a wide selection of books about Fayetteville, Cumberland County and North Carolina. Local writer Farrington Smith has written this wonderful history of our hometown. Whether it’s about the original Native Americans or the Scottish settlers or our role in the American Revolution, we learn fascinating stories about our past. It includes the years when we were the state capital in the late 1700s. In 1789 alone, North Carolina ratified the U.S. Constitution here, and the General Assembly met here to charter the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Those of us who love Fayetteville will enjoy reading these interesting, factual stories to entertain visitors and newcomers to our community.
2. The House Behind the Cedars by Charles W. Chesnutt
No list of books about Fayetteville, and specifically about downtown, would be complete without a book by one of our most famous authors and America’s first successful Black novelist. Charles W. Chesnutt (June 20, 1858–Nov. 15, 1932) was born in Ohio to parents from Fayetteville. After the Civil War, he and his parents moved back to Fayetteville, where he attended the Howard School, which ultimately became Fayetteville State University. Chesnutt was a brilliant man and eventually became the second principal of the school. He later moved back north to pursue his writing career. He sets “The House Behind the Cedars” in “Patesville” after the Civil War, a thinly disguised Fayetteville. In this, his first novel, Chesnutt gives a realistic depiction of the region at the time and explores the plight of Black Americans and the complexities of “passing.”
3. Sandy Kay Stars in a Play by Brian Adam Kline, illustrated by Camila Vasconcelos
What better example of the talent we have in Fayetteville than a children’s book by two teachers from Capitol Encore Academy, right here in our downtown. Kline and Vasconcelos have joined together to write and illustrate a book about a little girl, Sandy Kay, who bravely decides to try out for her very first play. When she finds out she has won a part in the play, her real adventure begins. This cleverly illustrated book will help any aspiring young actor learn all the aspects of the theater. And along the way, like Sandy Kay, it will help them conquer their stage fright.
4. The Adventures of Arlo & Red written and illustrated by Caroline Merino Morrozoff
This adorable book for children has illustrations of numerous places in downtown Fayetteville. Caroline has created fabulous art for years, and this is her second children’s book. It tells the story of a little boy, Arlo, who befriends a dragon, Red. Together, they go on an adventure through scenic downtown. With beautiful illustrations and the two friends’ delightful adventure, there are great lessons for children to learn in this popular book.
5. The Gilbert Theater Story by Lynn Pryer
If you ever attended one of Gilbert Theater’s plays during the eight years at the Brandts Lane location, you will love this delightful walk through the history of one of our city’s beloved local theaters. Founder Lynn Pryer has compiled this history with beautiful color photographs of some of the most memorable plays produced. His dedication speaks to his love for Fayetteville: “This book is dedicated to the city of Fayetteville, North Carolina — a place where dreams come true and where commitment is encouraged, supported and rewarded.”
6. Floriography: An Illustrated Guide to the Victorian Language of Flowers written and illustrated by Jessica Roux
Originally from Fayetteville, Jessica Roux has created a guide to the secret meanings of a stunning array of flowers and herbs. Who knew that flowers were a secret means of communication, usually to express love in its many forms? During the 19th century, the rules of “good manners” prevented the public display of affection, particularly in Victorian England. Instead, flowers were used to communicate those special feelings. This book, with its stunning illustrations, has become one of the most popular gifts for mothers and loved ones, or even for yourself.

“The lights are much brighter there
You can forget all your troubles,
forget all your cares
So go downtown,
things’ll be great when you’re
Downtown, no finer place for sure
Downtown everything’s waiting for you.”
— from “Downtown” by Petula Clark.