Greenville, SC: An Author’s Viewpoint

When I visit a new city, I like to see it from a writer's point of view. Greenville, SC was no exception. I was here for a conference, book signing and a school visit, but more about that next time. Today, I want to share this burgeoning city to which people of all ages are flocking. It is one of the top ten cities to live in, a mecca for senior citizens, and a model for downtown rehab success -- other cities use the Greenville model when reviving a dead downtown district.

So, the first thing I noticed along the broad tree-lined Main St. was a plethora of dining establishments to suit all taste buds. And the clever names, of course, caught my eye as I love words.

The one above was exceptionally clever, don't you think?

Then there were the statues.

My love of history took over, so I took the time to read the plaques. The wild boar copper sculpture entitled Il Porcellino is a replica of the one in Florence, Italy. Tradition says if you rub the boar's nose, you will return to Florence. And if your coin, placed in its mouth, falls into the well of the fountain below, you will have good luck.

On corner further down Main St. was another copper sculpture commemorating two African-American students who stood up for their rights at nearby Sterling High School in the 1890's and won!

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You can't be a lover and writer of books and not visit the local bookshop. Here in downtown Greenville there is a gem of a bookseller called M Judson Books. And besides books it hosts a lovely coffee shop. Not surprising for a popular spot for tourists or locals.

A writer's conference took us to a hotel in Traveler's Rest. Isn't that a quaint name? This also is a growing community, much to the chagrin of the local folks in this sleepy town. But I've heard the restaurants are stellar, and the Swamp Rabbit Trail is drawing young working couples to the area.

A fancy wall adjacent to a popular restaurant.

Popular trail that will some day span over 20 miles.

Adorable and trendy shop called Montgomery Grace.

The Swamp Rabbit Trail

A room of vintage and rare books. If I weren't a minimalist, I would have bought several!

I am fascinated with signs. Well, clever and humorous signs anyway. The one below is a perfect example. Take a close look at the title under the signature. And all I wanted was a ride to the third floor. . . no adventures, please!

And last, but not least, my author friend Mary and I had a lovely dinner at this trendy Italian restaurant, Limoncello. Alas, it would have been perfect, if it weren't for the fire ant that stung my toe. Who knew they were lurking in places other than the Virgin Islands??

Well, I'm back home again to work on my manuscript submission, social media posts and marketing strategies. More about that next time. As long as I'm on the subject, I've posted one of the memes that was created for my book below. Have you read it? If so, I'd sure appreciate an Amazon review.

Do you know a middle grader looking for his or her next read? Consider The Heart Changer!