The Wizard of Odd: A Vermont Tale of Community Devotion

Welcome to Oddertown, Vermont, population 700, more or less. Tucked into the remote Northeast Kingdom, and filled with a collection of quirky characters, "Odd" epitomizes the traditional and independent ways of a small New England village. Experience the rich tapestry of life and characters that constitute this microcosm of what makes Vermont―and any genuine small town―a special and memorable place. With a diverse population ranging from hard right conservatives to far left earth muffins, but all guided by mutual tolerance, respect, and love of community, the town unites around the solid and historic structure that defines life here: the Odderton Country store, now in its 137th year. But Kate Langford, the new, 6th-generation owner, is facing a serious and impending problem that threatens to shut down the store―and village life as they know it―in less than a year. With support from retired and widowed professor Jim Watson and a devoted citizenry, Kate struggles to save the epicenter and lifeblood of Oddertown, despite major obstacles thrown in her path. Through comedy, tragedy, resilience, despair, surprises, and love of place, and inspired by real challenges that face real Vermont towns, The Wizard of Odd captures the essence of what comprises a good and authentic community truly worth fighting for. 

Born and raised in the wild suburbs of Rahway, New Jersey, Gary K. Meffe escaped at the age of 24 to pursue a Ph.D. at Arizona State University. He was a Research Professor in ecology and conservation biology at the Universities of Georgia and Florida, during which he co-authored two textbooks and was editor-in-chief of an international scientific journal. In retirement, Gary turned to non-scientific writings and in 2014 published a collection of essays called Van Cortland Chronicles. A Celebration of Life in a Small Vermont Town. When not writing he enjoys fly fishing, woodworking, and outdoor activities that connect him to the natural world. He and his wife of 36 years live in Brandon, Vermont. This is his first novel.