The local literary community is always working, creating and crafting to express themselves and connect with readers.

Three mainstays of the community have books either recently released or forthcoming; while certainly there are more worthy titles coming out of Columbia and mid-Missouri, these definitively deserve mention.

Daren Dean, “Lovesick”

While readers should also have their eyes out for Dean’s forthcoming novel “Shelter Me” (out in October), the former Columbia resident and Lincoln University professor offers a wondrous literary curio here. “Lovesick” gathers short works of prose, from creative, craft-focused nonfiction and prose poetry to a couple stories. Perhaps most compelling is the story “Severe Weather,” which both captures a tarnished father-child reunion and its namesake storms. (“They both sat there quietly for a moment until the thunder died out in a poignant echo,” Dean writes. “Some jagged white and purple lightning strikes shook the house when they hit the ground.”)

Sharon Feltman (ed.), “Soul of Our Soul”

The local poet edited and contributes to this collection, subtitled “Palestine in Poetry and Prose 2025.” Mid-Missourians will recognize the likes of Cass Donish, Cam Whelr and Barbara Leonhard among a strong list of writers. Feltman, otherwise known as Sharon SingingMoon, excels at gathering literary talent whether on the page or in person, so the anthology comes with promises.

Janet Saidi, “Jane Austen: The Original Romance Novelist”

Out this month, this text extends the local radio stalwart’s fascination with Austen, the animating force behind her project The Austen Connection, already a successful podcast and newsletter. The book “offers a deep dive into Austen’s personal life, uncovering lesser-known aspects of her relationships, inspiration and personal struggles,” according to a news release. Saidi will enjoy a book launch Sept. 30 at Skylark Bookshop. Learn more about the event at https://www.skylarkbookshop.com/new-events.

Aarik Danielsen is the features and culture editor for the Tribune. Contact him at adanielsen@columbiatribune.com. He’s on Twitter/X @aarikdanielsen.