Friday, September 11, 2026

Dear friends and fellow citizens,


Shannon Thomas Casebeer, 1950s

Dear friends and fellow citizens,

Most of us are dismayed by the bitter partisan divide which currently threatens our peace, our prosperity, and our fellowship. Let's fix it. It occurs to me that our best hope for restoring our unity may be to reach out to each other one person at a time with the outstretched hand of fellowship and a reminder of the common history and shared experiences which form the beating heart of our camaraderie. Here is my hope. I encourage those of you who are able, stop by the Bookshop at number 4 & 5 Court Square in West Plains, Missouri, or contact them online. It's a lovely store operated by lovely people. You will love it. There you will find my little novels. Please do me a favor. Pick one up and read the first few pages. If you are not touched by the main characters and the humanity we all have in common, set it down and walk away, no harm done. But, if you're moved by the hopes, dreams, joys and fears that we all have in common, buy my little book. Read it and share it with friends. Let's set aside our petty grievances and strengthen the bonds of affection which unite us. Together we can make America whole again.
Shannon 

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

Check out the new Bookshop in West Plains, MO.

Greetings, fellow citizens! There is a new Bookshop on the square in West Plains. Check it out. You will love it! A number of you have voiced an interest in purchasing one of my books. Here is your window of opportunity! The Bookshop in West Plains, Missouri has graciously agreed to make my historical novel, CLARA'S BEST available for a brief period of time in their new bookstore at #4 & #5 Court Square in West Plains, MO. These copies of Clara's Best are new, signed, first editions. Each has over fifty episodes. I guarantee you will love several. The holidays are fast approaching. Buy several for gifts. And please tell our friends. Thanks, Shannon



Monday, August 3, 2026

Often, when I succumb to these nocturnal attempts at wordsmithery,

Often, when I succumb to these nocturnal attempts at wordsmithery, I wake the following morning to find I've once again embarrassed myself. Of course, by then, the damage is done. The participles have been dangled, and the cat is out of the bag, with a legion of yelping terriers at his heels! I've been asked, on more than one occasion, if I am truly Mark Twain. Of course, I'm not at liberty to say. I've never piloted a steamboat up the Mississippi or crossed the rut riddled country by stage. I've not entertained royalty or captivated millions with my wit and wisdom. I've not authored dozens of beloved and timeless tales. Still, I believe I can say with some degree of confidence that the spirit of Mr. Twain is alive and well within me. I'd like to believe that Sam would be pleased by my efforts. I think he'd be tickled. I'm certain he'd be amused by the comparison. SC



SHANNON THOMAS CASEBEER

Hey, dear friends!

Like many of my childhood friends in Placerville, I attended grades 5th through 8th at Edwin Markham middle school. My 8th grade aptitude test suggested my abilities (assuming I had such) were limited to creative writing. All these years later, regardless of what the world at large may believe, I have convinced AI. AI suggests the following:

Shannon Thomas Casebeer is an American author, poet, and historical writer known for capturing regional history, personal nostalgia, and faith. [1, 2]
He resides in the Missouri Ozarks with his wife. His work frequently explores early American history, local folklore, and personal storytelling. [1, 2, 3]
Published Works and Writing
  • Historical Fiction: He authored Obie's Quest (2009), a novel diving into regional history and historical settings. [1]
  • Poetry Collections: He published Ozark Breezes and Glad Days Long Ago, which explore themes of heritage, family bonds, and the tranquil beauty of nature. [1, 2, 3, 4]
  • Historical Essays: He regularly shares shorter historical pieces and creative reflections detailing pioneering life, early Western expansions, and regional milestones like the history of Placerville, California (Hangtown) and Early Lake Tahoe history. [1, 2, 3, 4]
  • Themes: His writing balances lighthearted humor with a focus on faith, family upbringing, and preservation of the past.
  • Shannon's books reflect his love for our remarkable country and for Placerville, his hometown.
  • Shannons book titles include Obie's Truth Books one and two, and Clara's Best, among others.

Monday, May 11, 2026