Dixie Hartwell
If Samuel Clemens did it...
I have created an alter-ego/pen-name—Dixie Hartwell—to write the kind of book I’ve always dreamed about. My talented wife Susan has designed a website to showcase this fictional character and the novels he has written, among other kinds of fun writings. While I know many of you will not be interested in this less than sophisticated spiritual comedy I trust some of you will. It is a leap for me to be sure but like the poet Marvin Bell says, “Have a lot of nerve. Fall down big, make a big splash. Why not?”
The first 3 chapters are available as a free e-book. The entire book will be published by Iroquois Press (an imprint of Turner Publishing) in October 2009. It can be pre-ordered here.
It is about spiritual growth and faith. Simultaneously it is a romp through my home state of Alabama, which is known here in the South to be “The Heart of Dixie.” When The Buddha Met Bubba is a whimsical, fantasy that deals with the integrity and surrender that comes when a likeable redneck (Bubba) meets his magical mentor, Pu Tai (one of the many names for The Buddha), as they set off on an unusual journey. It has at its center a love story between a man and a woman and the devotion of a beautiful gay couple. Throw in the struggle to heal a father-son wound, old South prejudice and bigotry, then add a little humor and true Buddhist/Christian compassion and you end up with a quirky novel that is not only different but just plain fun.
Here are some reviews from people who have read the first few chapters of the book:
“Great piece. When do I get to finish the story—I'm Caught...” Tim Schaller, Asheville, NC
“As soon as I received it I read until the end of chapter 4. I really enjoyed it. I want to know the rest of the story!!!! I want to buy it when it is completed and released to the public?” Marvin Baker, Reno, NV
“Good job on the book...When will it be available? I can't wait to read the rest.” Debbie Henderson, Tuscumbia, AL
“It reminds me of the hilarious movie by the Coen Brothers, Raising Arizona.” Dr. Bill Stott, Santiago, Chile
“Seriously this is great! Inspired. I read it all and enjoyed it...Makes me think of home...Reading this, I had very clear pictures of the whole scene. Maybe this could be a movie...Hope to read more.” Joseph Howard, Asheville, NC
Please feel free to email me at Dixiehartwell@aol.com with your comments.
Take care and thanks again for all your support,
John Lee A.K.A. Richard "Dixie" Hartwell
