#United States #Nitro #Charleston, West Virginia #Ann Calwell #Two Centuries

Celebrating History Through Storytelling

On November 11, 2025, the world marks the 107th anniversary of the armistice that concluded World War I. In honor of this significant historical date, Hart + Harvest Press is proud to unveil Ann Calwell's latest literary work, "Two Centuries, One Year: A Historical Novel of the First World War." This novel takes readers back to a transformative time, exploring the extraordinary changes that a small town underwent during the war, all witnessed through the eyes of a spirited young girl.

A Town Transformed

"Two Centuries, One Year" chronicles the evolution of what was once a quiet farming community near Charleston, West Virginia, into a bustling manufacturing hub dubbed 'Nitro', named for an essential ingredient in gunpowder. This change was fueled by the urgent need for munitions for the Allies, leading to an explosive growth of the town and its population.

The narrative unfolds through the diary of Ana Ariano, a 12-year-old girl who fancies herself as a ''war correspondent.'' Ana's perspective provides readers with an intimate look at the her community's daily lives as they adapt from a horse-driven agricultural society to one that embraces industry, wartime challenges, and social changes. Through her observations, readers will witness not just the historical events but also the universal experiences of adolescence, ambition, and belonging.

Bringing History to Life

Ann Calwell's choice to set this tale in Nitro is deeply personal; she grew up in this unique setting. Utilizing archival materials, photographs, and other authentic documentation, Calwell meticulously reconstructs this period of West Virginia's history. The village of Nitro was selected in 1917 by the War Department due to its strategic location, catapulting it into a vital manufacturing center for war supplies, thus ending its humble agricultural beginnings and ushering it into modernity almost overnight.

Calwell cites a letter penned by President Wilson to a young girl named Mildred White in Maryland as a key inspiration for her story. This touching correspondence compelled her to craft Ana's character—a girl determined to document her town's metamorphosis. Ana’s diary entries not only record the town's progress but also connect to larger themes of historical significance, community identity, and the importance of youth perspectives in times of turmoil.

Ana’s Journey

As she writes to the President about her experiences in Nitro, Ana describes various phenomena, including innovative construction methods, the science behind gunpowder, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding wartime profiteering. In doing so, readers accompany her on a journey of maturity as she navigates complex social landscapes, embraces change, and develops along with her community.

Not Just a Novel

Calwell's storytelling juxtaposes historical events with personal growth, illustrating how ordinary lives can be dramatically altered by extraordinary circumstances. Her deft combination of fiction with real-life events creates a rich tapestry that not only brings history to life but also resonates with young readers' own aspirations and challenges.

Currently available as an e-book, "Two Centuries, One Year" is set to hit physical bookstores and online platforms like Amazon and Barnes & Noble soon. The book promises to enlighten readers about the industrial boom during the First World War through a narrative that is as educational as it is engaging.

About the Author

Ann Calwell is not only an author but also a dedicated educator, having spent years teaching English and Spanish and working with children at the West Virginia University Hospital. Her family legacy, particularly her father's contributions to Nitro's history, continues to inspire her, making her portrayal of this time period authentic and heartfelt.

Conclusion

In a world that often overlooks the nuances of history, "Two Centuries, One Year" stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in revealing the past. For more information on this remarkable new release, visit hartandharvest.com.

As readers discover Ana's journey, they are invited to reflect on the broader implications of war, community, and identity—topics that remain relevant today.