News Summary
Pamela N. Harris, a local author from Toano, Virginia, is releasing her new Young Adult thriller ‘Through Our Teeth’. The novel follows three former friends investigating the mysterious death of their best friend. To celebrate the launch, Harris will host a book launch event at Fountain Bookstore in Richmond, featuring a discussion with author Lamar Giles. The book emphasizes diverse storytelling and aims to resonate with underrepresented voices.
Toano, Virginia – Local author Pamela N. Harris is set to release her new Young Adult novel titled “Through Our Teeth” on September 16, 2023. The book is described as a thriller that follows three former friends who suspect their deceased best friend’s boyfriend may be involved in her death. As they delve into a quest for justice and revenge, the story unveils secrets about their friend, leading to a gripping narrative.
Harris, born in Newport News, Virginia, has a diverse professional background, including experience as a school counselor and a current role as a professor at William & Mary. At the university, she contributes to the graduate counseling program, focusing on training future school counselors and clinical mental health professionals. Throughout her career in education, Harris has recognized a significant gap in books reflecting diverse characters and backgrounds, which motivated her to write stories that resonate with marginalized voices.
As an only child of a military family, Harris found comfort in literature from a young age. She often turned to authors like Judy Blume and Beverly Cleary during her formative years. However, she felt a lack of representation in the characters she encountered, leading her to question whether individuals like her could become authors themselves. This personal experience informs the themes of her writing, which seeks to provide visibility for underrepresented groups.
The inspiration for “Through Our Teeth” emerged from Harris’s observations as a school counselor, where she frequently heard students express frustrations about the limited diversity in the stories available to them. This understanding reignited her passion for writing, compelling her to create narratives that resonate with both her past experiences and the experiences of her students.
The plot of “Through Our Teeth” presents a compelling premise akin to other popular narratives like “Mean Girls” and “Gone Girl”. The book explores the complex dynamics of friendship and the underlying question: “How well do you ever really know your friends?” As the characters navigate their investigation, the tension builds with unexpected twists and revelations, making it an engaging read for young adults.
To celebrate the launch of her novel, Harris will host an in-person book launch event at Fountain Bookstore in Richmond on September 16, 2023, at 6 p.m.. This event marks a significant milestone as it is her first in-person event since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Harris plans to engage in a discussion about her novel with fellow Young Adult author Lamar Giles, providing insights into her writing process and the story’s themes.
As part of the launch, a pre-order campaign is being conducted through Fountain Books, where customers can receive a complimentary infinity pendant necklace designed to resemble the book’s cover, while supplies last. Following the launch, “Through Our Teeth” will be available at various retail locations for readers to purchase.
Harris expresses enthusiasm about bringing this long-cherished story to life, having originally conceptualized it as her first story idea. Although it underwent numerous revisions, the essence of the narrative remained intact, allowing Harris to realize her dream of publication. In addition to sharing her stories, she is open to engaging in conversations and participating in book club events, particularly those focused on the mental health themes present in her writing.
More information about Pamela N. Harris and her literary works can be accessed through her official author webpage.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Common Threads Social Club Launches in Williamsburg
Additional Resources
- WYDaily: Toano Author Releasing Young Adult Novel in September
- Wikipedia: Young Adult Literature
- Legacy: Mrs. Pamela Harris Obituary
- Google Search: Pamela N. Harris
- Goodreads: Through Our Teeth
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thriller Literature
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF 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.
