Lee Maynard, author of West Virginia University Press titlesCrumandScreaming with the Cannibals,has been chosen to teach at this summers Appalachian Writers Workshop July 31-Aug. 5 in Kentucky.

The annual event features workshops in novel, short story, poetry, childrens literature, memoirs and other areas of interest to writers.

A book of both praise and contention,Crumwill be one of the selected works in focus for the week-long celebration of Appalachian literacy heritage.

Set in 1950s West Virginia in the rural coal mining town of Crum, Maynards novel recounts a stark, coming of age tale. Enchanted by the hopes of escaping his desolate surroundings, the teenage protagonist embarks on the poignant journey from the realm of youth to adulthood.

The novel is emotionally engaging with its humorous, emotional plotlines and vivid characters. Controversial for explicit sex references and profanity,Crumoffers an unedited perspective of adolescent angst against the confines of living within an impoverished community.

The introduction, by Meredith Sue Willis, captures the feelings for this WVU Press best-selling title:Each time I read Lee MaynardsCrum, I ask myself why this foul-mouthed, sexist, scatological, hillbilly-stereotyping novel is one of my all-time favorites.

Crumwas originally produced in 1988 to widespread critical acclaim. The novel was selected for reprint by the West Virginia University Press in October 2001, and is successfully gaining new generations of audiences.

For further information, contact the WVU Press, 304-293-8400, orhttp://www.wvupress.com.