by Fawn Weaver
First published 2024
New York Times bestselling author Fawn Weaver investigates the untold story of Nearest Green, the African American distilling master who taught Jack Daniel his craft. Working in present-day Lynchburg, Tennessee, Weaver conducts personal interviews and unearths buried documents to reveal Green's central role in creating America's most famous whiskey brand. Her research exposes how Jack Daniel worked throughout his life to preserve Green's legacy and honor the contributions of Green's descendants, who continued distilling alongside the Daniel family for generations. Weaver transforms historical detective work into compelling narrative, showing how Green's expertise shaped the whiskey that carries Daniel's name. The book reveals both the professional partnership and personal friendship between the two men, demonstrating Daniel's respect for his mentor. Through methodical investigation, Weaver brings forward voices that history overlooked and celebrates figures who built American culture from the shadows.
Genres: biography, business, african-american-historical-fiction, american-history
Vibes: intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: friendship, partnership
Setting: Lynchburg, Tennessee
Period: 19th-century, 20th-century
376 pages · Hardcover · Melcher Media Inc