Author and artist Jerry Pope (who also happens to be a Swannanoa resident) has penned a just-released historical science-fiction novel set in Black Mountain. The Elvis Tooth tells the story of Odell Lutz, a tourist visiting the Swannanoa Valley on the eve of his wedding. Wandering into Pellom’s Time Shop in Black Mountain, he’s mysteriously transported back to the 1950s. During his quest to get back to the present in time for his wedding, Odell has run-ins with notable long-time residents and a variety of celebrities who made their home in the Cover of Swannanoa Valley Postcard History, by Mary and Joe Standaert area during the 1950s. The Elvis Tooth can be purchased for $10 at several locations in the area, including Town Hardware in Black Mountain and the Swannanoa Valley Museum.

Montreat residents and authors Mary and Joe Standaert have also released a new book, Swannanoa Valley, a Postcard History. With the help of postcards from the 1900s, this book showcases the rich recreational and cultural history of the Swannanoa Valley. The book can be purchased for $22 at Madden’s Ace Hardware in Swannanoa, the Swannanoa Valley Museum, and a number of other locations.

The Elvis Tooth and Swannanoa Valley, A Postcard History are also available for purchase on Kindle and Amazon.com.