Culpeper Teacher Pens Historical Novel Set in Shenandoah

Kimberly Richardson, an 8th-grade English teacher at Culpeper Middle School, has released her first novel, 'The Sons of Skyland.' Richardson, who has been teaching for nearly twenty years, writes about historical Shenandoah during the Great Depression. The story follows Seamus, a young man in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), as he navigates life's challenges during that time.

Set in Shenandoah, Virginia, the novel draws heavily on the region's history, which has always fascinated Richardson. She developed an interest in Shenandoah's past during childhood visits to the national park. Her personal experiences enrich the book's setting.

Richardson was inspired to write by the real-life stories of those in the CCC, known as the Tree Army. Her thorough research helps portray the period accurately, reflecting the era's atmosphere and the resilience of its people. This dedication highlights her commitment to historical precision in her debut work.

Publishing 'The Sons of Skyland' taught Richardson about the complexities of the publishing industry, including copyright, marketing, and graphic design. Working with All Write Well Publishing, she navigated these challenges effectively, resulting in a well-produced book.

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