Dinosaurs in the Cornfield: Lessons Unearthed on My Grandfather’s Farm

Praise

“Dinosaurs in the Cornfield is a heart-warming, soul-lifting journey down the country road of childhood. Author William Hardison’s descriptive prose and his ear for the Tennessee rural accent bring to life idyllic summertimes on a farm with Grandpa, a wise gentleman whose wit and wisdom not only helped his grandson to understand the world around him, but also the reader as well. Candice Smith’s illustrations add extra charm to the story. Dinosaurs in the Cornfield is a delightful book for all ages and for all seasons of life.” —Mary W. Schaller, author of Deliver Us from Evil: A Southern Belle in Europe at the Outbreak of World War I (University of South Carolina Press)

“Having heard Bill speak many times, I expected a well-woven story. What I read was an enchanting memoir showing how simple lessons from Grandpa’s farm could have real-world value. His vivid descriptions pull the reader into the vignettes, allowing reflection on lessons from their own childhood. Grandpa was a wise man, and I am honored to have learned some of his teachings myself.” —Susan Schwartz RN, MSN, MSHA, co-president of the Richmond chapter of the Virginia Writers Club, and anthologist of the three-volume set Nightmares and Echoes. Her story “Blurred Line” was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award for long fiction by the Horror Writer’s Association, January 2017 (www.susanschwartzauthor.com).

“‘Delightful and insightful’—that’s what comes to mind when reading Bill Hardison’s new book, Dinosaurs in the Cornfield. Every child should have a grandfather like Bill’s—sturdy, present, and wise. I highly recommend this collection of thought-provoking life stories for readers looking for a wisdom that makes life worth living.” —Dr. Roberta Damon, Marriage and Family Therapist, Churchwoman, and author of the new book, Dear Mrs. Noah (Crosslink Publishing, 2017), A Voice Beyond Weeping (2002), and Relationship Skills: Leadership Skills for Women (1993) 

“Who knew that the cure for my middle-aged restlessness was searching for fossils in the cornfield, taking good notes with a carpenter’s pencil, or using every pot and pan in the house to catch the rain through the holey roof? Bill Hardison has given us a gift—a book I didn’t want to end, and one I will read again and again. His stories come alive in the telling and remind me of what it takes to be fully alive.” —Anthony Romanello, author of Random Thoughts: Reflections on Public Service, Fatherhood, and Middle Age 

“Dr. Hardison is a master storyteller, as evidenced in every chapter of Dinosaurs in the Cornfield. The life lessons and earthy wisdom woven through the enchanting and heartwarming stories of his adventures with his grandpa on the family farm in rural Tennessee are both timeless and inspirational. Each chapter will touch your heart, moving the reader to tears or genuine laughter. This is a must-read for parents and grandparents who strive to instill positive values and strength of character in the ‘young’uns’ they love.” —Monica L. White, Director of Student Services School of Allied Health Professions, Virginia Commonwealth University