Lauren Tarshis Recap 2025
The Spirit of 76’ came to life at the Buchanan County Public Library last week with a visit from “I Survived the American Revolution”, 1776 author, Lauren Tarshis.
She is the New York Times Best Selling author of the children’s historical fiction series “I Survived”. Each book takes readers into the heart of history’s most thrilling and terrifying events. She has sold more than twenty-one million books.
“The Buchanan County Public Library (BCPL), in Grundy, Virginia, is especially close to my heart,” shares Tarshis. “I visited a few years back at the invitation of Teresa Matney, a warrior librarian who, along with a dedicated team, creates exciting and innovative programs for kids. I fell in love with the place during that first visit and was thrilled when Teresa invited me to return.”
Matney arranged for 3rd, 4th, and 5th-grade students from Council Elementary/Middle School, Hurley Elementary/Middle School, Mountain Mission School, Riverview Elementary/Middle School and Twin Valley Elementary/Middle School to visit with students.
“Over three days of meeting classes, I was overwhelmed by the passion these kids have for reading,” said Tarshis. “I loved hearing their questions and insights into history.”
In addition to meeting with students in Buchanan County, Matney scheduled Tarshis to visit Ridgeview Middle School in neighboring Dickenson County.
“Lauren has such a big heart and loves meeting with students,” said Matney. “We have a great relationship with the Haysi Community Library, so traveling to Ridgeview made perfect sense.”
Besides coordinating visits with school children, Matney hosted a public event Thursday evening with Tarshis to highlight the 250th Anniversary Celebration of the American Revolution. The event was attended by more than 275 people.
“It is important for us to look back and learn about how our country was founded,” said Matney. “We should be proud of the ideals that are found in the Declaration of Independence. By understanding them, we can better live up to them.”
As she left to return home, Tarshis reflected, “My favorite library is in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. I can’t wait to return to this magical place.”