James Larkin Pearson

Taylor makes good use of the many autobiographical materials Pearson produced during his long life. . . .Taylor's biography effectively captures details of rural life and places Pearson and his work into the trajectory of one hundred years of history. The book is a valuable historical account of a 'printer and poet' during a century of change. * North Carolina Historical Review *
While remaining true to Pearson's intent to be intimate and personal, Taylor's work presents the story objectively, chronologically, and fully.... Personal struggles plus his ability to overcome hardship characterize this notable Tar Heel's life, and Taylor's retelling of that life makes the book a compelling read. * Journal of Southern History *
This is a beautifully crafted work that frames Larkin as a true "Tar Heel." Born in log cabin on a farm in the Brushy Mountains of Wilkes County, North Carolina, Larkin's early love for poetry lit a flame that burned brightly until his death at the age of 102. A self-described "poor uneducated mountaineer clodhopper," Larkin struggled as an outspoken journalist who endured a long, unhappy marriage. Gregory Taylor does a masterful job of capturing this complex writer who admired Franklin Roosevelt, embraced socialism, and served as North Carolina's poet laureate for 28 years. -- William Ferris, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, author of Give My Poor Heart Ease: Voices of the Mississippi Blues
This biography of James Larkin Pearson is a love letter to North Carolina and a lively, revealing life story of one of its native sons, told with insight and intimacy. Gregory S. Taylor gives us both wide-angle views and fascinating close-ups from the life of an NC Poet Laureate who was also an Appalachian farmer, printer, journalist, and an ingenious, creative entrepreneur. With remarkable detail and empathy, Taylor shows us the insecurities and complexities of Pearson's personal and professional life. -- Sandra L. Ballard, Editor, Appalachian Journal, Appalachian State University