Author explores lobsterman subculture

Author K. Stephens will present a multimedia program titled Between Fact and Fiction: The Subculture of Maine Lobstermen Tuesday, Aug. 16 at 6:30 p.m. at Rockland Public Library, 80 Union St. Special accommodations for persons with disabilities can be made with 48 hours notice by calling 594-0310.

Stephens will stage an engaging presentation from her 2009 novel “The Ghost Trap,”  which follows the haunting story of Jamie Eugley, a young lobsterman struggling with the grinding responsibilities of a head-injured fiancée and mounting trap wars in a fictional setting based around Tenants Harbor, Spruce Head, Port Clyde and Friendship. “The Ghost Trap” is a modern tale with an old-fashioned hero who puts family and heritage before self.

Stephens, a long-term Midcoast resident, spent eight years researching and writing the background for the novel with James Acheson, author of “The Lobster Gangs of Maine,” and several lobstermen, including “Survivor” contestant Zoe Zanidakis, serving as consultants on its accuracy. Featured on MPBN’s “Maine Things Considered” and Time Warner Cable’s “Maine Street,” “The Ghost Trap” has received multiple awards and Publishers Weekly calls it “A rugged and tender tale.”

Stephens has teamed up with fourth-generation Maine lobsterman Ryan Post, creator of the educational DVD “Maine Buggin” that gives the inside scoop on how lobster traps work, how they are caught and how invisible territory lines are drawn. Stephens will splice fictional excerpts with documentary-style video clips for a fast, exciting presentation for those interested in the hard-working lifestyle that goes with Maine lobster fishing.

VillageSoup Art/Entertainment Editor Dagney Ernest can be reached at 207-594-4401 or by email to dernest@villagesoup.com.