Rundus publishes second book

By Andrea Vukcevic
Features Editor

Retired English professor Dr. Raymond Rundus read aloud parts of his latest book, “Joseph Mitchell: A Reader’s and Writer’s Guide,” and autographed copies at the Sampson-Livermore Library on Thurs. Nov. 6.

This is Rundus’ second book about Joseph Mitchell, one of Robeson County’s most distinguished authors. “Joseph Mitchell: Pilgrim in Manhattan” was published in 2002. Rundus said this will likely not be his last book, much to the dismay of his wife.

Mitchell was known for writing about interesting characters including gypsies, prostitutes, street prophets, bartenders and sideshow performers that he met in New York City.

“Listening was part of his art,” Rundus said about Mitchell. “He wrote about the tapestry of the human pageant.”

Joseph Mitchell grew up in nearby Fairmont, N.C. and had a distinguished career at the New Yorker magazine. He published six compilations of profiles he wrote for the magazine including “McSorley’s Wonderful Saloon,” “Up In The Old Hotel” and “Joe Gould’s Secret.” This book was adapted into the 2000 movie bearing the same name starring Stanley Tucci, Susan Sarandon and Ian Holm.

One of Mitchell’s very few public appearances was at UNCP in 1993. That is when Rundus first met Mitchell, who had come to see the Native American Resource Center and tour the campus.