How They Linger: Stories of Unforgettable Souls

by Donald Davis

Genres: Memoir

316 pages, Paperback

Published March 1, 2024

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Donald Davis (born 1944) is an American storyteller, author and minister. Davis had a twenty year career as a minister before he became a professional storyteller. He has recorded over 25 storytelling albums and written several books based on those stories. His long career as a teller and his promotion of the cultural importance of storytelling through seminars and master classes has led to Davis being dubbed the "dean of storytelling".

Reviews

[Sara Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

These stories are especially meaningful if you’re from Southern Appalachia, as I am. The author went to HS with my father in Haywood County, NC, so this book had very familiar places and people.

But it’s great for anyone who just wants a little nostalgic escapism from our harsh world right now. I felt very comforted while reading this—simple things and people who care about each other.

The chapter on Miss Morton (2nd to last chapter) was my favorite. It’s about an eccentric & very memorable cat lady. ;)

[Clint · Rating 5 out of 5]

Latest set of stories — these all personal — by national storyteller Donald Davis, who I’ve been lucky enough to hear in person. Readers, especially those who grew up in small towns, will relate to some of the characters. Stories are told in the North Carolina author’s sweet, charitable and authentic style.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Donald Davis never disappoints! This book is about people he has known who have gone on but will never die because someone remembers them and their stories, the marvelous ways these remembered souls touched the lives of those who knew them. I have heard Mr. Davis tell some of these stories before, and now I have a written record of them. In some way, I feel like I know some of the characters in this beautiful book. What tremendous tributes!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This read much like a Readers digest, short stories told by a master story teller. He feels that people can be considered alive/ dead as long as people still remember and talk about their lives.

[Anneg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book about a variety of beloved and interesting people Donald Davis remembers from his past. As a native of western NC, a former pastor, and an amazing storyteller, he presents the stories with love, care, and humor. Reading them warmed my heart. "Precious memories, how they linger..."

Donald Davis travels across the country telling his stories, and fortunately for me, he comes to my community every year!

[Donna Craig · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very enjoyable collection of vignettes. Donald Davis wrote this book to memorialize people from his past by telling their stories in a warm, affectionate voice. I found myself very moved by several of the people whose stories I read. Lovely.