Up Here with Shelley Read

Before her debut novel Go As A River became a global sensation — selling over a million copies and translated into 35 languages — author Shelley Read was simply a beloved Crested Butte local. In this episode, the fifth-generation Coloradan and former Western Colorado University professor takes us behind the scenes of her massive literary hit. Set in our backyard, the story centers on the flooded, forgotten town of Iola and explores deep themes of displacement, identity, and resilience. Shelley sits down with us to reflect on her 13-year journey to write the book, the sudden whirlwind of international fame, and her breakneck travel across dozens of countries. She shares what it has been like to make intimate connections with hundreds of readers all over the world, while revealing why, no matter how big the world gets, there is ultimately nothing quite like the love of your own village. This episode brought to you with generous support from Artisan Rug Gallery Find more local inspiration at Crested Butte Magazine