Aiken, SC, October 4, 2025
News Summary
The University of South Carolina Aiken will welcome renowned author Tom Cooper as part of its Oswald Distinguished Writers Series on October 7, 2025. This free event, starting at 7:30 p.m., will include a book signing, allowing attendees to engage with Cooper following his reading. Known for his works ‘The Marauders’ and ‘Florida Man’, Cooper’s writing explores themes of Southern culture and human resilience.
USC Aiken to Host Author Tom Cooper for Distinguished Writers Series
AIKEN, SC – Author Tom Cooper is set to speak at the Oswald Distinguished Writers Series at the University of South Carolina Aiken on October 7, 2025. This event will begin at 7:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public, providing an opportunity for attendees to engage with the author during a book signing following the reading.
Cooper, originally from Fort Lauderdale, is recognized for his two novels, including the critically acclaimed “Florida Man,” published in 2020. His debut novel, “The Marauders,” released in 2015, explores the lives of ex-shrimpers coping with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. This novel has earned significant praise, notably from renowned author Stephen King, who has lauded it as “one hell of a novel.”
In his second work, “Florida Man,” Cooper delves into the lives of outsiders living on a small island near the Everglades. The narrative centers around Reed Crowe, the owner of a struggling motel and a peculiar roadside attraction known as the Florida Man Mystery House. The story takes a twist with the discovery of a human skull, leading to a series of chaotic events that are intertwined with quirky elements like an unreliable sidekick dressed as a bog man and a low-cost tourist excursion called the SS Merman.
Cooper’s writing style falls within the genre of “grit lit,” which emphasizes realistic narratives while highlighting Southern cultural contexts. Influential authors in this genre include Harry Crews, Larry Brown, Elmore Leonard, James Lee Burke, and David Joy.
For additional information regarding the event, interested individuals can contact Dr. Andrew Geyer via email at [email protected].
Event Details
- Speaker: Tom Cooper
- Date: October 7, 2025
- Time: 7:30 p.m.
- Location: USC Aiken
- Admission: Free and open to the public
- Post-Event: Book signing
Author Background
Tom Cooper’s novels reflect a deep understanding of human struggles and resilience against the backdrop of significant events affecting Southern communities. His ability to weave humorous and dark elements into gripping narratives has earned him a space in contemporary literature.
FAQ Section
Who is the featured speaker at USC Aiken’s Oswald Distinguished Writers Series?
The featured speaker is Tom Cooper.
When will the event take place?
The event is scheduled for October 7, 2025, beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Is there a cost to attend the event?
The reading is free and open to the public.
What are some of Tom Cooper’s notable works?
Tom Cooper’s notable works include his debut novel “The Marauders,” published in 2015, and his second novel “Florida Man,” published in 2020.
Who can be contacted for more information about the event?
For more information about the event, you can contact Dr. Andrew Geyer at [email protected].
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Event Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Speaker | Tom Cooper |
| Date | October 7, 2025 |
| Time | 7:30 p.m. |
| Location | USC Aiken |
| Admission | Free and open to the public |
| Post-Event Activity | Book signing |
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Tom Cooper Event
- Cola Daily: Active Shooter Update
- SC Daily Gazette: USC Active Shooter Alert
- Post and Courier: USC Active Shooter Incident
- Legacy: Mary Lucas Obituary
- Wikipedia: Tom Cooper (Author)
- Google Search: Tom Cooper
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tom Cooper
- Google News: Tom Cooper
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
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