From the pioneering days of writers influenced by the surrounding sweeping landscapes to contemporary authors redefining narratives, Greeley continues to inspire voices that shape the literary world. For those curious about our connection to this awe-inspiring and "novel" realm, venture into The Midnight Oil Bookstore (827 10th St.), join their Monday night writers' group at 6 p.m., explore the BlackBox Arts Collective (blackboxartscollective.com) or take a peek at these local authors.
Carlos José Pérez Samano
África: Sueño de Sombras Largas is a gripping travel memoir that chronicles a young Mexican’s journey to Tanzania to build a school while facing hunger, malaria and corrupt leadership.
Author of six books, Carlos' work spans continents, appearing in global anthologies and earning accolades like the 2021 Everyday Genius Award and the Penn Museum’s Artist-in-Residence position. In 2022, he was honored as Author of the Year at the Latin American Book Fair. His opera Hotel Moctezuma has been nominated for the 2025 Fedora Opera Prize, considered the "Oscars of opera."
perezsamano.com
Tory Steelman
In Breaking Tradition, author Tory Steel weaves a gripping narrative of resilience and courage. Angela, a teenager grappling with dark family secrets, faces an unimaginable fate: an arranged marriage to a cartel leader’s son. Determined to escape, she moves from Texas to California, seeking freedom and a fresh start.
Tory Steel, an Air Force veteran, channels her personal resilience into her work, crafting heroines who transform challenges into stepping stones.
torysteel.com
Shadae B. Mallory
The Story of Serena Williams invites children ages 6 to 9 to explore the remarkable journey of the tennis icon. Written in accessible language, the book highlights Serena’s resilience in overcoming challenges like discrimination and injuries while showcasing her love for family, community and philanthropy.
Shadae, a writer, educator and social justice advocate, holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Northern Colorado and a Master of Arts in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University. Shadae lives in Northern Colorado—with her partner, dogs and chickens—and is dedicated to empowering future generations through storytelling.
shadaemallory.net