Author Talks
There is a specific kind of electricity in the air during an author talk that I find absolutely addictive. I truly love peeling back the curtain on the creative process, diving deep into the DNA of my characters, the clockwork of my plots, and the messy, visceral conflicts that drive a story forward. Sharing the "why" behind a protagonist’s difficult choices or discussing the structural hurdles of a complex narrative allows me to reconnect with my own work through a fresh lens, making the solitary act of writing feel like a vibrant, shared experience.
Beyond the craft itself, the real highlight is the opportunity to step away from the desk and connect with readers face-to-face. While I enjoy sharing my journey, the Q&A sessions are far and away my favorite part of any event. There is a wonderful unpredictability to them; because I can’t rehearse the answers, the dialogue becomes raw, spontaneous, and incredibly honest. It’s in those unscripted moments—answering a surprising question or hearing a reader's unique interpretation—that I feel the most profound connection to the people who bring my stories to life.
I’ve had the good fortune to attend two author talks with Maine’s Blue‑Collar Author, Jerry Farnham. On both occasions, his presentation was as heartfelt and engaging as the stories he writes. Farnham—US Navy veteran, Boothbay Harbor native, and author of the *Red at Night* series, which includes *Red at Night*, *Red in the Morning*, and *First Light*—drew a full room of readers eager to hear the inspiration behind each book and the characters who inhabit his coastal world.
Jerry’s authenticity sets the tone from the moment he begins speaking. He’s genuine, funny, and clearly loves interacting with his audience. His talks feel more like conversations in a living room than formal lectures. He speaks openly about character development and how he creates people who feel real—flawed, resilient, and deeply human. He also discusses the themes, or lessons, woven into each book, offering insight into the heart behind his storytelling.
Whether he’s talking about the discipline of writing before dawn, the influence of fellow Maine authors like Tim Cotton, the joys and frustrations of working on his Jeep between chapters, or the importance of family and values, Jerry keeps the room laughing and leaning in for more.
To close out each event, Jerry hosts a book signing, giving attendees the chance to chat with him one‑on‑one and ask the questions they may have been too shy to raise earlier. He offers copies of his books for sale and happily personalizes autographs—many attendees arrived with their pre‑purchased copies in hand, ready for his signature. I certainly did.
Jerry Farnham’s visit to my library left all of us inspired, entertained, and eager for the next installment in the *Red at Night* series.
-Joanne Allen
Paperback $16.00
Hardcover $20.00
Paperback $12.00
Hardcover $20.00
Paperback Package Deal $35.00
Hardcover Package Deal $50.00
I accept cash or card at Author Talks, no checks please.
Paperback $12.00
Hardcover $20.00
Schooner Cove- Miles Campus
Attending an author talk is a unique opportunity to peel back the curtain on the creative process, allowing you to hear the "story behind the story" directly from the source. It transforms a solitary reading experience into a shared community event, where you can engage in lively discussions, gain fresh insights into your favorite characters, and perhaps even discover the personal inspirations that sparked the book into existence.
Scarborough Library
By popular demand, "Maine’s Blue Collar Author" Jerry Farnham returns to the Scarborough Library on April 3, 2026. After a great turnout for his first visit, Jerry is back to share more stories about the grit and heart of life in Maine. He’ll be discussing his latest work, reading new selections, and answering questions about the writing process. Whether you missed him last time or just want to hear what's new, we’d love to see you there.
Baxter Memorial Library
I am absolutely thrilled to be returning to the Baxter Memorial Library for an upcoming author talk. There is something incredibly special about sharing my work with this community, and I couldn't be more excited to dive back into the world of the Red at Night series with all of you. Whether you’ve been following the series since the first page or are just discovering it now, I’m looking forward to a wonderful evening of discussion, questions, and shared love for stories.
Turner Public Library
It is always a special experience to return to the Turner Public Library, a place that truly embodies the heart of the community. Stepping through those doors feels less like a formal engagement and more like a homecoming. As "Maine’s Blue Collar Author," there is a unique satisfaction in sharing stories with a crowd that understands the grit, humor, and hard work that define life in this corner of the state. Whether we’re discussing the latest plot twists or the realities of the writing craft, the energy in the room at Turner is always grounded, authentic, and incredibly welcoming.
Preparing for an author talk here on Saturday, May 16, 2026, brings a sense of renewed excitement to connect with both familiar faces and new readers. These sessions are more than just a lecture; they are a conversation about the characters and landscapes that make our local culture so rich. There is nothing quite like the Q&A session in a local library to spark fresh inspiration, as the questions from the Turner community often dive deep into the "how" and "why" of the storytelling process. It’s a privilege to occupy that 1:00 PM slot and contribute to the library's vibrant tradition of supporting local voices.
Boothbay Harbor Rotary Club
It is always an honor to be invited back to the Boothbay Harbor Rotary Club, but this upcoming visit on June 11, 2026, carries a special weight. This will mark my third time speaking to the club, and I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude every time I walk through those doors. There’s a distinct "full circle" energy to this location because it is exactly where I gave my very first author talk. Back then, I was just stepping out from behind the computer to share the Red at Night series with the world; returning now feels like coming home to the community that gave me my start.
The Rotary Club embodies the spirit of Maine—hardworking, community-minded, and incredibly supportive of local stories. I’m looking forward to catching up with familiar faces and sharing how the journey has evolved since that first nervous presentation. Whether we’re discussing the latest developments in the Jack Finn series or the realities of being a "blue-collar" writer in the Midcoast, there is no better place to have those conversations than with the folks who have been in my corner since day one.
Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library
A Homecoming Between the Pages
There is a unique magic in sharing stories with the people who walk the same streets and breathe the same salt air that inspired them. Returning to Boothbay Harbor for this author talk feels less like a formal presentation and more like a conversation with old friends. As the primary setting for my books, this town is more than just a backdrop; it is a living, breathing character that has shaped every plot twist and shaped the grit of my protagonists. Standing here, surrounded by the familiar landmarks that populate my chapters, brings the creative process full circle.
In these stories, I’ve tried to capture the authentic, blue-collar spirit of our community—the quiet strength of the docks, the rhythm of the seasons, and the unbreakable bonds of the people who call this place home. During this talk at the Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, I look forward to pulling back the curtain on how our shared reality transformed into fiction. Whether you recognize a specific wharf or the cadence of a neighbor’s voice in my dialogue, this event is a celebration of the place that made these books possible and the community that continues to inspire my work.
Vinalhaven Public Library
Join Jerry Farnham, Maine’s Blue Collar Author, for an engaging evening at the Vinalhaven Public Library as he discusses the inspiration behind his work and the craft of storytelling through a working-class lens. Jerry’s narratives are deeply rooted in the Maine experience, capturing the honest, rugged spirit of the people who make their living from the land and sea. This talk will dive into his writing process, the development of his relatable characters, and the importance of preserving authentic Maine voices in contemporary literature.
Whether you are an aspiring writer, a long-time fan of Jerry’s blog, or simply a lover of local stories, this session offers a unique opportunity to connect with an author who builds his books with the same dedication found in Maine's shipyards and fishing docks. There will be time for a Q&A session following the presentation, where Jerry will answer questions about his Character Guide and his journey in the literary world. Come share in a night of storytelling that celebrates the heart and hustle of our island community.
Southport Memorial Library
It’s a special kind of homecoming to return to the Southport Memorial Library for another author talk. There is a unique, coastal charm to the space that perfectly mirrors the rugged, salt-of-the-earth themes found in "blue-collar" storytelling. Stepping back into that familiar environment—surrounded by the scent of well-loved books and the quiet hum of a community that truly values local voices—reminds me why I started writing in the first place. It’s not just about the words on the page; it’s about the handshake and the shared stories that happen in the aisles of a library like Southport.
Coming back on Thursday, June 24, 2027, feels like picking up a conversation with an old friend. I’m looking forward to engaging with the regulars and meeting new faces who are curious about the writing craft or the inspiration behind my latest work. There’s a certain energy in a room full of fellow Mainers who understand the grit and heart of our local culture. I can’t wait to dive into the details of my journey, answer your questions, and celebrate the power of storytelling together in one of my favorite corners of the state.