Local author writes book about big dreams in Blacksburg

Amongst pages of essays are carefully crafted stories that bring to life the feeling of the community that is Blacksburg.

Krisha Chachra has written a collection of essays in the book, “Homecoming Journals: Dreaming Big in a Small Town.”

The book consists of essays Chachra wrote for the Roanoke Times about experiences in Blacksburg. Other essays in the book include stories about growing up as a second generation Indian American, as well as coming home to Blacksburg. The book also features photography.

“I turned my lemons into lemonade, so to speak,” said Chachra. The column turned into essays, and the essays turned into reflections about Blacksburg, which in turn became the book.

Chachra left Blacksburg after receiving a Bachelor’s Degree from William and Mary and pursued a Master’s Degree from American University in Washington D.C. She also taught communication courses in Hawaii for three years.

The author said that while she liked Hawaii she missed the feeling of community and the two-minute commute, so she recently returned to the small town. “I realized how important home is,” said Chachra. She wanted to write a tribute to her town.

“I’ve been wanting to move away for 10 years and I can’t seem to leave this place,” said Tracy Bishop, local friend of Chachra. “I think if I left when she did, I would’ve been back by now too.”
Bishop said she too appreciates the strong sense of community and short commute.

Mountain Trail Press of Johnson City, Tenn., was hired by Chachra to custom publish this unique book that gives insight into the local community. “We thought the book had great potential,” said Ian Plant, president of Mountain Trail Press, “She has her finger on the pulse of that community.”

The book is set for release Friday May 11 and is available online at Amazon.com and BN.com for $14.95.

Signed copies will be available at the Emporium next week, and signing will also occur during Orientation in August, and Homecoming in October. For more information about signing dates and times, contact your local bookstores.

In light of the recent tragedy the book may offer some relief and insight into the kind of community that the Blacksburg is for locals and the nation alike. Chachra was at the Corporate Research Center next to the Blacksburg Airport on April 16.

While she may not have attended Virginia Tech, she said she feels a part of the Hokie Nation. “The Hokie heart resides here,” said Chachra.