author
John Foster West
1918–2008
A North Carolina writer and teacher, he brought Appalachian history and mountain life to the page with a mix of careful research and storytelling warmth. He is especially remembered for exploring the real story behind the Tom Dula legend and for helping shape creative writing at Appalachian State University.
2 Audiobooks
Cogito, Ergo Sum
by John Foster West
Duel in Black
by John Foster West
About the author
Born in Wilkes County, North Carolina, on December 10, 1918, he studied at Mars Hill College before serving in the Army Air Corps during World War II. After the war, he returned to school at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning degrees in English and continuing graduate study there and at Columbia.
He taught in the English Department at Appalachian State University from 1968 until his retirement in 1990 and is remembered as an important mentor to student writers. Appalachian State later honored his influence through creative writing scholarships that bear his name.
His books often drew on North Carolina people, places, and legends. Among the best known are The Ballad of Tom Dula, a documented account of the case behind the famous folk song, and The Summer People.