American writing's diversity of form is one of its greatest strengths. This series celebrates journalism, poetry, history, biography, graphic art and all forms of American Writing.
Trubek, the founder of Belt Publishing, presents 24 essays by current and former residents of the Rust Belt states that explore the region’s postindustrial decline, as well as its resilience. They reflect upon happy childhoods, successful community ventures, warm refuges for outsiders, and hidden oases of natural beauty. But mainly they are stories drawn from uniquely personal experiences. These essays go a long way toward expanding the narrative about the Rust Belt in that they refute stereotypes, explore a vastly varied series of experiences, and provide a valuable history lesson on industrialism.
“Timely . . . [the collection] paints intimate portraits of neglected places that are often used as political talking points. A good companion piece to J. D. Vance’s Hillbilly Elegy.”―Booklist
When you RSVP, your email will be added to our list to receive our monthly e-newsletter and future programming updates.