Delta Blues (Tyrus Books, HC: $27.95; PB: $17.95) edited by Carolyn Haines, is where crime fiction intertwines with the soul of the blues. With stories centered around the legendary crossroads where bluesman Robert Johnson allegedly sold his soul, these tales celebrate the rich Southern culture of the Delta. The Mississippi Delta is one of America’s most culturally rich and economically poor regions. Publisher Tyrus Books wanted to raise awareness of the intense need of books – and the written word in general – to enrich the lives of others. Through a partnership with Morgan Freeman’s Rock River Foundation, they are giving back $1 per sale of each book to increase literacy in the region. Morgan Freeman writes, “This collection of short fiction captures both the art of the tale and the power of the blues, and is a nod at the human condition that often inspires musicians to write and sing the blues.” Contributors include: Ace Atkins, James Lee Burke, Suzann Ellingsworth, Beth Ann Fennelly, Bill Fitzhugh, Tom Franklin, and John Grisham, among others. Tonight, our own Southern-based, blues loving contributors Lynne Barrett and Les Standiford will give a joint reading to celebrate this inspiring publication.