Stories of Struggle, Strength & Survival.
Leon Swarts
Books are available on
About Poverty in America
From despair to dignity—journeys through resilience
My decision to write books about poverty was based on personal and professional life time experiences.
As a child, I grew up in the inner city of Buffalo, NY. The area that we lived in consisted of hard working white middle class families and impoverished ethnic and racial groups. At one time, the neighborhood was free from crime and violence but a gradual change led to an unsafe environment with families living in poverty. The setting was my first personal experience with poverty
When I was nine years old our family moved to a suburban Buffalo town to escape the run down city neighborhood, crime, and its escalating poverty rate. Living in a new environment was welcoming and safe.
What They Says
Reader’s Reviews
Narratives
From Coal Town Tales Sharing Unique Local Experiences
In the heart of coal country, there lies a treasure trove of untold stories and experiences waiting to be shared with the world. This is where Coal Town Stories comes in, a business dedicated to capturing and showcasing the unique essence of coal towns through various forms of media.
Through their storytelling and content creation efforts, Coal Town Stories delves deep into the history, culture, and people that make up these vibrant communities. From the hardships and triumphs of the coal mining industry to the local traditions and folklore that have been passed down through generations, every story is carefully curated and presented with authenticity and respect. By shining a spotlight on these often overlooked towns and their inhabitants,
Narratives
Follow Me (2022)
Provides the foundation research needed to discuss the
double-digit poverty rate that has existed in the US for the past sixty-four years
and twelve presidential administrations. Despite repeated legislation, welfare
programs like nutrition, health, and financial assistance the poverty rate has
ranged between 19% and 10 per cent.
The story is about a teen growing up in Chicago. After the sudden death of his
father, he and his family were left without income and evicted from their home.
They moved to a project for two years until they could afford a home in a better
neighborhood. The teen survived the ordeal and overcame it’s negative effects
through determination, education, and a commitment to help his family and
community.
Narratives
Together Again (2023)
A novel set in Buffalo NY, spanning the years 1975 to 2001. The story centers on a character who is plagued by recurring dreams of his twin brother who he was separated from when he was four years old. The dreams become vivid and troubling because of the loss. The effects of the loss result in psychological problems and are compounded with the real-world events of 9/11. He bridges his psychological problems, finds his lost brother, and commits to helping his community’s struggle with teen pregnancy.
Narratives
Coal Town Stories (2024)
Offers a glimpse into the life of a Scottish coal- mining community in the Appalachian region of Kentucky from 1020 to 2024 through a collection of personal anecdotes from family members, friends and locals, The book vividly portrays the history and daily experiences of the town’s residents through stories told in an authentic and informal style that reflects the local dialect. Each narrative reveals the cultural heritage and community spirit of the town, illustrating how shared experiences and storytelling contribute to cultural bonding. By presenting stories as they are spoken, the book captures the genuine voice of its narrators and emphasizes the importance of preserving local history and traditions.
Latest Update
Our Blogs
Follow me on Instagram
