Meet author and educator Mary Smathers, a storyteller with deep California roots and a lifelong passion for Latin America. A former teacher and administrator in the Salinas High School District, Mary brings history to life through unforgettable characters and rich historical detail.

Her new novel, Unfamiliar Territory, continues the journey begun in her debut novel, In This Land of Plenty—a sweeping family saga rooted in California’s dramatic past. This latest chapter follows one woman’s grit and perseverance through the chaos of the Gold Rush and Civil War eras. Mary will share insights from her novel and offer a fascinating window into California’s untamed early years at our Local Author Talk.

Register here: https://forms.office.com/g/jezUM3kfEE

For more information, contact Kate at KathrynB@ci.salinas.ca.us