Family Stories Reveal History and Humor of South Arkansas

“There are stories everywhere,” according to Charles Strickland, and his recounting of “Raising Charles” opened the book signing event for his cousin Lavana Jones Kindle’s book Tales of Bearhouse Creek and Other Stories at the Calhoun County Library on Tuesday.

Kindle’s collection brings to life the unique culture of southeastern Arkansas through stories from Strickland, family reunions, and personal memories. Perspectives from various relatives create a history of more than the Jones family, but that of the days of Moon Pies, rooming houses, teased hair, one-room schoolhouses and such. One does not have to be a relative to enjoy these tales.

To the group at the signing, Kindle read the chapter “A Visit with My Favorite Aunt” with her aunt Betty Reddin Morrison, whose home is Hampton. In the excerpt, Aunt Betty recalls her mother threatening to get the pliers and pull out all of her and Kindle’s mother’s teeth because they wouldn’t stop biting each other in a childish argument.

As Strickland said, “Some stories aren’t funny when they happen, but they are 20 years later.”

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