Shelley Read

Read connects Colorado's dynamic landscapes to the intricate web of human experience, grounding her narratives in themes of resilience, environmental change, and community. Her debut novel, "Go As A River", employs a lyrical style that transforms the mid-20th century rural Colorado setting into a living character. The book's protagonist, Victoria Nash, navigates a male-dominated world, mirroring true historical challenges like the damming of the Gunnison River. This powerful storytelling blends historical and environmental elements, evoking the beauty and brutality of nature while addressing complex issues like prejudice and survival.\n\nRead's career as an educator at Western Colorado University significantly influenced her writing, as she spent nearly three decades teaching writing, literature, and environmental studies. This background informs her nuanced exploration of human and environmental interdependencies. By establishing programs for first-generation and at-risk students, she honed her skills in mentoring emerging writers, balancing personal and professional commitments before retiring to focus on her literary ambitions. Her deep-seated connection to Colorado, where she is a fifth-generation resident, is evident in her detailed depiction of the region's natural and social landscapes.\n\nFor readers seeking a rich, character-driven narrative that transcends time and place, Read's novel offers a profound exploration of how environments shape identities and destinies. Her bio reflects an author deeply invested in themes of love, loss, and adaptation, making her work both a tribute to her Colorado roots and a universally resonant story. Recognized with accolades such as the High Plains Book Award and Reading the West Book Award, "Go As A River" not only captivates but also invites reflection on the enduring impact of our surroundings.