Living Shoreborn: A Glimpse into Life on the Eastern Shore of Virginia

by Barry Mears

The Eastern Shore of Virginia is a living time capsule that has withstood the true test of the ages. The misty haze of a morning sky marks the dawn of a new day in the life of a Shoreborn soul. The seagulls are up with the sun, and work boats chug out the creek in the pre-dawn sky. There is only one thing on a waterman's making a living and doing their family proud. Author Barry Mears shares touching stories of friendship and the power of community, as well as navigating the changing social and economic landscape. Through vivid storytelling and personal reflection, "Living Shoreborn" is a heartfelt tribute to a distinct and treasured way of life.

134 pages, Paperback

Published June 6, 2023

Reviews

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Living Shoreborn is a colorful and creative history of the Eastern Shore of Virginia (ESVA – aka the “Shore”) as told by life-long resident, Barry Mears. It’s a mix of both personal experiences and collected memories of others who live on this unique peninsula that’s surrounded by the Chesapeake Bay to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. If you look for it on a map, it’s the piece of Virginia that looks like it should be a part of Maryland. Actually, the only way to get to the “mainland” of the state is to travel across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel that begins at the southern most tip of the Shore.

Geography is just one of the things that makes the ESVA unique. As anyone that has grown up in a small town can confirm, it’s the “people that make the place” and the author brings that aspect to life within the pages of Living Shoreborn. He introduces readers to many of the “characters” that have left their mark on generations of Shore residents.

From the people, to the spattering of small towns off route 13 (the main thoroughfare that runs up and down the Shore) to the bounty of both land and sea – the author touches on pretty much everything that makes this peninsula and surrounding islands such a special place to live, work and play, along with the many changes that have taken place through the years.

Even if your only knowledge of the ESVA are Chincoteague and Assateague Islands, made famous by their wild ponies, I believe most readers will find Living Shoreborn both an interesting and entertaining glimpse into the place that the author calls home. It might even make you want to come explore for yourself. ❤

I voluntarily read and reviewed a gifted copy of Living Shoreborn. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[April M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Purchased this at a book signing on Chincoteague Island. Loved reading such wholesome memories of growing up in one of our favorite vacation spots. Lots of history and heart!