Long before UCO professor Kevin Hayes was born, the literary road had been paved by the Founding Fathers.
History was set and Hayes thrust it into the forefront of the present.
Just as several of founding fathers did since the beginnings of America’s history, Hayes began his writing career by jotting down ideas and recording his thought with a pen and paper.
“For many years I kept a journal,” Hayes said.
It was not until Hayes entered graduate school at the University of Delaware that he wrote his first book.
Hayes originally wrote “Captain John Smith: A Reference Guide” as his master thesis.
Since then, Hayes has published five additional books.
Many of the books Hayes wrote are still inspired by the Founding Fathers and the modest beginnings of America.
His writings focus on early American libraries.
Libraries in America began as private collections in the homes of those who could afford them in early colonial times, Hayes said.
Private collectors included Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Henry, George Washington, Benjamin Franklin and many others.
“Books capture a part of the past that is still influencing the present,” Hayes said. “They are important to preserve so we can read and study them. Books are an expression of art.”
One of Hayes’ books became especially important to him.
“The Road to Monticello: The Life and Mind of Thomas Jefferson’ is my favorite,” Hayes said. “It’s the book I put the most work into.”
Hayes’s autobiography of Thomas Jefferson was nominated for several book awards including the Oklahoma Book Award and the George Washington Book Prize.
Hayes’ literary road did not stop at Monticello.
He is currently working on a book about George Washington and will be writing a book that features a collection of essays by Edgar Allen Poe.
Hayes said he is passionate about book writing and considers it a special accomplishment.
For young authors getting started Hayes offered this advice, “Keep a journal. Its a good way to record thoughts and practice writing.”
When you find something you want to write a book about, stick with it until it gets done, he said.
For Hayes, the Founding Fathers taught more than one lesson.
They taught “the importance of democracy,” Hayes said, and they taught “the importance of making sure everybody gets their voice heard.”
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