J. CURTIS
Stories have the power to preserve history, spark imagination and connect generations. Through my work as both an author and journalist, I strive to tell stories that matter—whether they unfold in the magical corners of the Mississippi Delta or on the battlefields of Vietnam.
JOURNALIST | AUTHOR | STORYTELLER
"I Would Like To Write The Way A Bird Sings"
A Sanctuary for Storytellers...
I am Joe Curtis, an award-winning journalist, author and storyteller from the Louisiana and Mississippi Delta region. In 2026, I was honored to receive the Gibbs Adams Award for Best Investigative Reporting, recognition that reflects my commitment to uncovering important stories and giving a voice to the people and communities I serve.
My writing spans two very different but equally meaningful worlds.
For young readers, I created Dr. Dill's Antique Shop for Tohopkas, a middle-grade fantasy adventure inspired by the rich folklore, history and mystery of the South. The Tohopkas series follows unforgettable characters as they encounter magical creatures hidden in plain sight, blending adventure, friendship and imagination against the backdrop of the Mississippi River and historic Natchez.
Alongside my fiction, I am dedicated to preserving the stories of America's veterans, particularly those who served in Vietnam. Through in-depth interviews and nonfiction features, I document the experiences, sacrifices and resilience of the men and women who carried the weight of war long after returning home. These stories are not simply accounts of military service; they are stories of courage, family, loss and redemption.
As a journalist for The Franklin Sun and The Concordia Sentinel, I cover local government, community events, sports and investigative stories throughout northeast Louisiana and the Mississippi Delta. My mission has always been the same: to tell honest stories that inform, inspire and preserve the voices of ordinary people living extraordinary lives.
Whether you are here to explore the magical world of Tohopkas, read about the heroes of Vietnam or follow my latest journalism, I am grateful for your visit. I invite you to browse my books, articles and projects, and to join me in celebrating the stories that shape our communities and our history.
Welcome, and thank you for reading.
