Drew Perry

Perry teaches writing at Elon University. His first novel, This Is Just Exactly Like You, was a finalist for the Flaherty-Dunnan prize from the Center for Fiction, a Best-of-the-Year pick from The Atlanta Journal Constitution and a SIBA Okra pick. His second, Kids These Days, was an Amazon Best-of-the-Month pick and was named to Kirkus Reviews 'Winter's Best Bets' and 'Books So Funny You're Guaranteed to Laugh' lists.

Life

Family Tradition: An Afternoon Well Spent at Rudd Farm

Every kid should spend a day on the farm, learning about how his food is grown. A generous helping of sweet corn, eaten right in a Guilford County field, is just a bonus.

Central

City Portrait: Mebane

The “hellos” from neighbors are sincere, the murals are welcoming, and the downtown beckons with good books and even better food. In this Alamance County town, there’s a sense of belonging.

Life

Family Tradition: Finding the Light in Linville Caverns

In the darkness of Linville Caverns, surrounded by stalactites, stalagmites, and stories of the past, you might just discover a newfound courage.

Guides

4 Gas Stations with Pit Stop-Worthy Fried Chicken (Seriously)

So, you want to go on a pilgrimage to find the best fried chicken in North Carolina? Plan to stop at these gas stations. No, really.

Life

Family Tradition: Fishing for Adventure

A day of sunshine and good company beside the French Broad River is a day well spent, whether or not the trout are biting.

Family Tradition: A Trip to the Reptile Rescue Center

Life

Family Tradition: A Closer Look at Rescued Reptiles in Kernersville

Sometimes, discovery awaits in the most unexpected places — like a shopping-center storefront in Kernersville.

Life

Family Tradition: Ready, Set, Sled!

When the snow hits, winter thrill-seekers of all ages take part in a time-honored snow-day tradition. They head for the hills, sleds in tow.

Arts

Randolph Community College’s Top-Notch Photography Program

One of the top photography programs on the East Coast can be found at a small community college in Asheboro, where old-school film techniques prepare artists to work in the digital age.

Life

A Lesson in Patience from a Polaroid Camera

For two boys who’ve grown up in a world of instant digital connections, there’s still wonder in waiting for a Polaroid picture.