Set in one of the Appalachian region’s most stunning places, the Roan Highlands, this as an exploration of the relationship between truth and legend, especially when it pertains to women and landscape, and how cultural attitudes shape the narrative.

Distilled: The Legend of Jane Bald

Imagined moments in the real life of explorer Mina Benson Hubbard, author of A Woman's Way Through Unknown Labrador, published in 1908.

Sextant

Excerpt: “Uncle Dan, where did this baby come from?” Dan mumbled something; Nicholas could only make out the words “found her,” “basket,” “tree,” “river.” When he leaned closer and asked whose she was, Dan could only utter, “Don’t know.” 

Debra Mihalic Staples

Selected work