Elizabethtown College Assistant Director of Academic Advising Curtis Smith recently had his novel, “The Magpie’s Return” named to the Kirkus Review’s Best Indie Books of 2020.
Released in August 2020, “The Magpie’s Return” is his fifth novel and thirteenth book. The dystopian literary tale takes place in a futuristic, post-nuclear war America and follows Kayla, a middle school math prodigy who is seeking revenge, redemption, and survival.
“Being named to any best-of list is an honor – but it’s an especially satisfying honor to come from Kirkus, which might be the most highly-regarded reviewing publication in the industry,” said Smith. “Once a book is published it no longer belongs to me – it belongs to the world – and I’m just happy The Magpie’s Return found its way to someone who enjoyed and appreciated it.”
Smith, who teaches creative writing at Etown in addition to his role in academic advising, has published over 125 stories and essays. He is also active in the literary community and has published over 100 book reviews and author interviews.