Bill Walsh, assistant professor of English, not only guides Reinhardt students in professionally crafting their words but also invites readers into his own storytelling. Reinhardt proudly announces the release of his second published novel, Haircuts for the Dead (Mercer University Press, 2025).
The fictional story centers around a young woman who cuts the hair of the deceased at a funeral home. Her compelling tale depicts her confronting issues of race, her sexual identity, the burdens of her family’s past, and challenges to her faith — all while seeking to send her customers to the hereafter with honor.
The pages hold more than an engrossing story. Walsh explains, “In Haircuts, I have tried to present opposing views, albeit with a subtle nuance. I hope to open a line of dialogue so there is less hatred for someone being different and having opposing opinions.”
Walsh began writing Haircuts for the Dead in 1988 and rewrote the story multiple times over the decades, even enlisting two students as editors and critics. He is also the author of ten books including Lakewood (TouchPoint Press, 2022), serves as the editor of the James Dickey Review, and directs Reinhardt’s creative writing programs. He enjoys sharing his personal journey with his students, explaining, “I show my students my successes, but I also discuss my mistakes and failures and help them to avoid the same missteps.”
Projects on the horizon for Walsh include a film script, four other novels, and a book of poems. He recently co-authored a book on Flannery O’Connor, scheduled for publication in April 2026.
The Decatur Library (215 Sycamore Street, Decatur, GA 30030) hosts a free and public book launch for Haircuts for the Dead on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. Click here for additional information.
To read an interview with Walsh about his life and his latest novel, click here to visit the Mercer University Press website.
– By Suzy Alstrin
