Michael Malone is one of the best-loved storytellers of the New South. Critics have referred him to as “America’s Dickens” due to his large and diverse canvas of characters, his strong social conscience, and his laugh-out-loud comedy. Handling Sin (1986), and Foolscap (1991) captivated readers with Southern comedy. Mystery lovers adored Uncivil Seasons (1983), Time’s Witness (1989) and First Lady (2001). His short story collection in 2002, Red Clay, Blue Cadillac was also a local favorite. Malone won the Writer’s Guild Award and an Emmy for his television writing. This past year he was a finalist for the SEBA and Book Sense Award. He has garnered the O. Henry and the Edgar Awards. He lives in Hillsborough, NC with his wife, Maureen Quilligan.