News Summary
Renowned paranormal author Patty Wilson shared her publishing journey at the Williamsburg Public Library’s 75th anniversary celebration. Local community members gathered to hear her engaging stories and insights on her successful book, ‘Haunted Pennsylvania.’ Despite facing initial rejections, Wilson’s perseverance led to remarkable success and widespread readership. She also discussed her collaboration with historian Mark Nesbitt on ‘Ghosts of Gettysburg.’ Wilson’s passion for ghost stories and emphasis on historical accuracy resonated with the audience, making the event a celebration of literature and community.
Williamsburg – Patty Wilson, a renowned paranormal author, shared her journey and insights on publishing as part of the Williamsburg Public Library’s 75th anniversary celebration. The event attracted local community members eager to hear Wilson’s stories and learn more about her path to becoming a successful author.
During her engaging presentation, Wilson recounted her experiences in writing and publishing her first book, “Haunted Pennsylvania.” This book is a compilation of ghost stories that Wilson has collected throughout her life. Despite facing early setbacks when her first publisher rejected it, Wilson’s perseverance paid off when a second publisher recognized the potential for long-term popularity, even for a book that was considered a slow-seller.
Remarkably, Wilson sold 2,000 copies of her first book during its launch event, prompting her publisher to print an additional 5,000 copies. To date, over 45,000 copies of “Haunted Pennsylvania” have been sold. The book has gained a reputation for being one of the most stolen books in public libraries, further indicating its widespread appeal and interest.
In addition to her efforts with “Haunted Pennsylvania,” Wilson has collaborated with historian Mark Nesbitt to produce another book titled “Ghosts of Gettysburg.” Her passion for ghost stories is evident, as she stressed their historical accuracy and the ongoing demand for such narratives from audiences. Wilson believes that the tales she shares are not just stories; they are an art form shaped by families and individuals who contribute their personal experiences.
During her talk, Wilson also provided valuable insights into the intricacies of the publishing process. She described the essential roles of editors and emphasized the critical nature of revisions in the development of a book. Wilson candidly expressed that the writing process is “humbling,” as she constantly learns how to improve her craft. She humorously noted that choosing a favorite book is as challenging as selecting a favorite child.
Wilson further entertained the audience by sharing ghost stories from various locations, including Penn State, Williamsburg, and Roaring Spring. One poignant story recounted involved a man who approached her to express gratitude for keeping his deceased brother’s memory alive through one of her tales. This moment highlighted the emotional connection that audiences have with ghost stories and the significance they hold in honoring memories.
The Williamsburg Public Library has been a cornerstone of the community for 75 years, providing resources and events that foster learning and engagement. The celebration of this milestone with an author of Wilson’s caliber only adds to the library’s legacy. As Wilson continues her work, she remains committed to bringing the enchanting world of ghost stories to life for her readers.
In reflecting on the event, it is clear that Wilson’s passion for storytelling and her dedication to historical accuracy resonate powerfully within the community. Her journey from a rejected manuscript to a best-selling author serves as an inspiration, encouraging aspiring writers to persevere in their endeavors.
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Additional Resources
- Middlesex County Herald: Ghost Stories and Publishing Tales at Williamsburg Library
- Wikipedia: Paranormal
- PR Newswire: Busch Gardens Launches 2026 Annual Pass
- Google Search: Williamsburg Public Library
- Williamsburg Families: Evening Programs at Colonial Williamsburg
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Storytelling
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
