It’s a common belief that Americans have always had a special love affair with their cars. Arkansas author Debbie Fowler uses this theme in her recently published book, “‘62 Chevy, an Auto-Biography.”

Debbie describes her book as “an upbeat, nostalgic and humorous story about a 1962 Impala.” In the story, the first owner of the luxurious blue car is Sam Bowers of Conway, Ark. He and his family take pride and enjoyment in it until, over a decade later, it is traded for another car. The story line continues with subsequent owners that include a teenage boy who makes a bad decision on the way to a 3 Dog Night concert in Little Rock, a gambler, a car collector and a high school shop class. 

And just like real life, there are smiles and sorrows and unexpected twists and turns along the way. 

Debbie, who has lived much of her life in Conway, was a bit of a late bloomer when it comes to her writing. She says she didn’t start until her 40s, but once she started she couldn’t stop. She was in her late 50s when she met her husband, Wayne Fowler, a fellow writer. Together they share a love of pursuing adventures in and out of state and writing about them.

The two now publish a blog titled “The Easily Amused Road Runners” (theeasilyamusedroadrunners.com) where they record their thoughts and views about their experiences. The topics vary and range from chasing white squirrels in Missouri to flying kites in Oklahoma. They often visit popular tourist attractions like Mammoth Cave. The blog also contains musing about the little things in life — something as simple as changing out the contents of your purse after buying a new one. If you like the stories on the blog, chances are you’ll love the book! It’s refreshing to see that every-day objects and experiences can convey wonder and enjoyment through Debbie’s eyes.

“‘62 Chevy, an Auto-Biography” is a fun read for everyone, but especially so if you’re an Arkansan of a certain age. Debbie prides herself in being a Baby Boomer, and both she and her husband love the unique styles and feel of that time period. Debbie and Wayne now live in Mountain Home — that is, when they are not in pursuit of a new adventure to write about!

Debbie’s book is available on Amazon and other online book sellers.

Susan Peterson

Susan Peterson holds a PhD in education and taught at the University of Central Arkansas and Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania. She retired in 2004 and now spends her time doing artwork (painting and pottery). She is the executive secretary of the Arkansas Reading Association, a professional organization for educators that has about 800 members statewide.