originally published in the Pickens County Progress, Thursday, September 17, 2020
A new book, “Once is Enough,” has appeared on the Pickens County arts scene. It includes a fascinating account of life in the 1940s through 1960s in Atlanta, Georgia, and written by Maria Boling, a well-known Pickens County Realtor who lived it.
Among other stories the book gives the reader a view into the personal lives of memorable Southern characters and actual political happenings during that era.
Maria Boling has served in the real estate field for over 50 years and her successful career could be a manuscript all its own. “I could not have written a book without including some crazy, some true, stories that happened during my career,” she said with a smile. “Every week agents had to write an ad for every listing, a task most just didn’t want to do. I developed a little cottage industry, write their ads and charged $5 each.”
Maria holds the honorable title of Realtor Emeritus from the National Board of Realtors. Ms. Boling lived in Cobb County prior to 2000, where she owned and brokered Covered Bridge Realty Inc. and was a member of the famed Literary Roundtable.
Maria has long been an avid writer. After moving to Pickens County she joined Big Canoe Writers, the Sassafras Literary Exchange and other writer organizations. “These members are an enlightened group of wordsmiths and the book is partially dedicated to them.”
Some of her editorials and articles have appeared in The Altanta Constitution and a variety of other publications. She authored an informative eight week program for senior citizens, “How to Write Your Love Stories,” which she taught at Life University’s Knowledge and Training Program and after school hours at the Cobb and Douglas County School Systems.
Century 21 Lindsey and Pauley is hosting the publishing of “Once is Enough” with a book signing on Wednesday, September 16th from 1 until 3 p.m. The location is 25 North Main Street, Jasper.
You are invited to come by and meet Maria, enjoy light refreshments and have her sign your personal copy of “Once is Enough.”
