Baltimore Writer Rafael Alvarez Discusses New Book “Crabtown USA” at Havre de Grace Library

From the Harford County Public Library:

Writer and neighborhood folklorist Rafael Alvarez will discuss and sign his new book, “Crabtown USA: Essays & Observations,” on Wednesday, June 29, at 6:30 p.m. at the Havre de Grace Library.

“Crabtown USA: Essays & Observations” is a collection of Alvarez’s many articles on Baltimore, the hometown he loves. They are connected by entries taken from working journals he has kept for the past 40 years.

Alvarez began his career as a writer for The Sun, primarily focusing on human-interest stories that explored the various people and enclaves in Baltimore.

He has also written for several television shows: “The Wire,” “The Black Donnelly’s” and “Life.” Alvarez wrote an encyclopedic companion to “The Wire,” called “The Wire: Truth Be Told,” which was nominated for an Edgar Award in 2010.

Alvarez’s other books include three short-story collections: “The Fountain of Highlandtown,” “Orlo & Leini,” and “Tales from the Holy Land” as well as two anthologies of journalism, “Hometown Boy” and “Storyteller.” He has also written the histories of the Archdiocese of Baltimore and The Tuerk House, a drug and alcohol treatment center for the poor in Baltimore.

“Harford County Public Library is so fortunate to have Rafael Alvarez as one of the first speakers at our new Havre de Grace Library,” said Mary Hastler, CEO. “Rafael is a well-loved writer who captures the hearts of his readers by his portrayal of people and situations that are so interesting and relatable.”

“Crabtown USA: Essays & Observations” will be available at the event for purchase and signing. For more information, visit hcplonline.org or call the Havre de Grace Library at 410-939-6700.