The Blackfoot There is a special exhibit of books written by local writers inside Kesler’s, the long-standing neighborhood grocery shop located at 925 West Bridge Street. Western novels, children’s literature, memoirs, and adventure anthologies are just a few of the diverse genres represented in the assortment.
The idea began around five years ago when local author Kelly Steele approached the store about offering Ross the Rooster, a children’s novel that swiftly garnered popularity, according to business owner McKay Kesler.
Many local writers then began to emerge from the shadows. “I had no idea there were so many,” Kesler added. Bingham County is home to several outstanding authors. This serves as a venue for authors to display and sell their books because Blackfoot no longer has any bookstores.
The latest addition is Call to Adventure: Stories by Real Idaho Outdoorsmen, which is a compilation of true hunting and fishing stories authored by Flint Nilsson of Blackfoot and four other authors. The anthology provides a window into the outdoor activities of Idaho.
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Tales from the High Lonesome, written by the late L. Scott Hancock, is another well-known book. Kesler claims that Hancock’s writing has been a best-seller at the store and that a new book he finished before his untimely death will soon be on sale.
It’s Her Story: Sacajawea by Randy L. He-Dow Teton, a Shoshone-Bannock/Cree lady from Fort Hall, is one of (McKay) Kesler’s particular favorites. The narrative of Sacajawea, the bilingual Shoshone girl who led the Lewis and Clark expedition at the age of 13, is told in this graphic novel, which is intended for young readers.
Ralph Thurston, Morgan Beck, Dee Molinari, Sandi Motor, Ben Rey Forsgren, Dan Barrus, and Kirby Jonas are among the other writers whom Kesler promotes.
Kesler’s often updates the display with new titles from both established and up-and-coming writers, and arranges book signings for the authors they carry.
The expanding local author area has drawn attention from customers, and many have praised Kesler’s social media backing of local talent.
Kesler’s encourages customers to browse the selection and find unusual Idaho books that also make excellent presents.
Authors from the area who would like to have their book featured in Kesler’s should contact Kesler by phone at (208) 785-0555 or in person.
