WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – The community attended a book signing event on Saturday.
The event was held at Front Street Market and Produce in Wilmington.
Wilmington native, Dr. Steven Harrison, signed copies of his newly released book named ‘November 10th’.
It’s about the story of the Wilmington Massacre and Coup D’état of 1898, the first and only successful government take over in the United States.
The book details the events that led to the burning of the Daily Record, an African-American newspaper business in Wilmington.
Dr. Harrison says as a young child he wasn’t properly introduced to historical events that took place in his hometown.
It wasn’t until he was told in a barbershop, as a child, about the massacre which then sparked his interest into finding out more.
He spent some time doing research into the past occurrences.
Dr. Harrison went onto get a degree at North Carolina Central University.
He says it was a goal of his to help educate students in Wilmington about history that can get overlooked.
Harrison wants his newly released book to be listed on the 8th grade curriculum. He says that’s when topics like government is discussed.
“I figured that if I created a book for eight graders to relate to the characters and still tell the story, then I felt like that would be a great way for the teachers not to neglect that anymore,” said Dr. Harrison.
The book, released in July 2024, is listed under the category of children books.
According to the book’s description: “Set against a crucial moment in American history, “November 10th” intertwines the personal struggles of the McKoy family with broader themes of politics, race, and identity. It is a powerful story of resilience, love, and the quest for justice amidst uncertainty and conflict.”
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