The Story Peddler – an independent bookstore located at 538 W. Main in Bellville -- will host author Mike Vance on Thursday, July 18th from 6 to 7 p.m. Vance will read from his first volume of short stories on little known Texas history titled “Undertold Texas.”

“Vance is a prolific author of many genres of books including Texas true crime, historic true crime, Texas history, comedy and sports history,” said Kris Graham, program manager for the store. “Throughout his career, Mike has also done stand-up comedy, hosted a regional television history program, co-hosted a television sports show and an afternoon talk radio program in Houston, and done voice over work as well as script and content writing. On top of all that, Mike fronted a band that performed original music in Texas, Mexico and the UK.” Vance has an extensive background in writing, producing, and directing educational documentary videos, several of which appeared on select PBS stations. He created an American history podcast called Prick the Balloon which is an irreverent, funny take on lesser known history in America. He's a super history storyteller! Utilizing Mike's 501c3, Night Heron Media, his work continues through the Texas History Initiative which creates videos and books that teach Texas History in 7th grade classrooms.

Vance has served on three different county historical commissions in Texas. He's a member of the Historical Novel Society and since 2010 has taught various Texas history courses of his own design at Rice University's Glasscock School of Continuing Studies.