Samantha Chaffin

News Editor

Idaho State University alumna Lisa Cresswell published her newest book, “Hush Puppy,” earlier this year and will hold a reading and discussion followed by a book signing at Marshall Public Library in Pocatello on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 11 a.m.

This is Cresswell’s first traditionally-published novel and was released in August.

“Hush Puppy” is the story of an interracial relationship between Corrine Lamb, a 17-year-old black girl, and Jamie Armstrong, a poor white boy, that takes place in a small North Carolina town.

Cresswell called “Hush Puppy” a young-adult novel that tells a coming-of-age story.

Cresswell wrote on her website, “Their shared love of literature and a dream of a better life brings them together and a romance blossoms between them in a secret place of their own in the steamy North Carolina woods. When Jamie is involved in the accidental death of a white girl, he’s terrified of his abusive father. Corrine takes the blame to protect Jamie, with dire consequences for herself and her dreams of the future. Her life in danger, Corrine’s left wondering if Jamie ever cared about her at all.”

Cresswell continued to write that events surrounding the death of Trayvon Martin underscore the prevalence of fear and hate still in the United States.

“Sadly, many of the themes explored in ‘Hush Puppy’ are extremely relevant to today’s youth,” wrote Cresswell. “It’s my hope that ‘Hush Puppy’ is a story not only about poverty and race, but about hope, friendship and the power of love.”

Cresswell joined the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and called it a great organization that helped her along her road to being published.

Cresswell pitched the story of “Hush Puppy” to a small publisher she came across on Twitter and last year around Thanksgiving, they offered her a deal on it.

“It’s a long, slow process,” said Cresswell. “It’s been a lot of waiting. My favorite part has been going to signings and events. I like connecting with readers.”

Creswell said she was pleased thus far with reviews readers have posted online.

The author said she was initially a little concerned that “people of color” may not like the book, however she said she has received positive feedback so far.

“I would love to have folks come out [to the event] and tell me what they think, if people want to purchase it online before the event and read it in advance,” said Cresswell.

“Hush Puppy” can be purchased on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Links to those websites as well as more information about Cresswell and her newest book can be found at www.LisaTCresswell.com.

Copies of “Hush Puppy” will also be available for purchase at the event for $15.

Marshall Public Library is located at 113 South Garfield Ave. in Old Town Pocatello.

Cresswell received her Master of Arts degree in Anthropology from ISU in 1994 and currently lives and works in Shoshone, Idaho.