Vt. authors of youth fiction visit Waterbury Jan. 31

January 16, 2024  |  By Waterbury Roundabout 

Two award-winning Vermont authors of youth fiction plan a visit to Bridgeside Books on Jan. 31.

Kenneth Cadow of Norwich and Dayna Lorentz of South Burlington will be at the independent bookstore on Stowe Street at 6 p.m. 

Cadow recently made headlines following the success of his debut Young Adult novel, “Gather.” The author of several books including Middle Grade novels “Wayward Creatures” and “Of a Feather,” Lorentz will join Cadow for a discussion. 

Kenneth Cadow. Courtesy photo

Bridgeside Books invited these two authors to create a conversation about the value of literature aimed at younger audiences. Both Lorentz and Cadow do not shy away from serious subjects and big emotions. They each are skilled in the art of crafting engaging, emotional narratives featuring rural youth navigating life’s biggest challenges. Both writers’ most recent novels also have garnered national acclaim. 

A 2023 National Book Award Finalist, “Gather” follows a resourceful teenager in rural Vermont who struggles to hold on to the family home while his mom recovers from addiction in Cadow’s first title. 

Dayna Lorentz. Courtesy photo

Kirkus Review had this to say of Lorentz’ “Wayward Creatures” 2022 release:  “As a story about community, healing, and family—both human and animal—this is one of the best.” The book tells a heartfelt animal friendship in which a troubled young boy befriends a wayward coyote after a forest fire changes both of their lives. It recently received the Charlotte Huck award by the National Council of Teachers of English. 

Both Cadow and Lorentz’s stories appeal to audiences of all ages. In announcing the upcoming event, Bridgeside Books encourages parents and teachers to read these alongside the children and teens in their lives.