Nancy Roberts (1924-2008), was often described as the "First Lady of American Folklore." She not only a best selling author but a superb storyteller, presenting storytelling programs and lectures on creative writing at clubs, public libraries, schools and universities. The author of over two dozen books, Roberts began her career writing ghost stories for the Charlotte Observer. Carl Sandburg encouraged her to publish her stories as a book. In 1958 she followed Sandburg's advice and her books have sold over one million copies earning her national recognition including a nomination for the Great Western Writers Spur Award and a certificate of commendation from the American Association for State and Local History.
Southern Living magazine described her as the "custodian of the twilight zone."
Roberts is survived by her husband, Jim Brown, who assisted her in her extensive research.
The Haunted South by Nancy Roberts (New York : Barnes & Noble, Inc., by arrangement with Univ. of South Carolina Press, 1996) ISBN 0760703671, OCLC: 37104698