Michael Farris Smith reads from Jack Sonni's novel, "Sagamore." Photo by Daneel Ferreira.
On Sunday, August 3, downtown Oxford filled with music and heartfelt reflection as the community gathered to celebrate the release of Sagamore, the debut novel by the late Jack Sonni. The event, held at Proud Larry’s, was more than just a book launch – it was a farewell and a spirited tribute to a beloved creative force who left a lasting mark on our local landscape.
Organized by friends and family, the release event featured a dynamic mix of readings by writers and associates, moving remembrances, and a performance by Sonni’s own band, The Leisure Class. Square Books was on hand to sell copies of Sagamore, and by the end of the evening, it was clear that Jack’s literary voice had resonated as strongly as his musical one.
Though best known as the “Other Guitar Player” in the classic rock band Dire Straits, Jack Sonni’s story took a second act after he left the road. Following many years of travelling, he eventually found his way to Taylor, Mississippi, where he became a familiar and beloved presence in the arts scene.
Jack forged deep connections with Mississippi musicians, writers, and artists. His final years were productive ones, filled with writing and performing. Sagamore was the culmination of that creative journey.
Completed just weeks before his unexpected passing in August 2023 at the age of 68, Sagamore marks a profound evolution in Jack’s artistic output. Far from a casual side project, the novel is a serious and skillful work of fiction that shows both a historian’s curiosity and a storyteller’s heart.
While the Proud Larry’s event marked the public debut of Sagamore, it also marked something more intimate: a shared moment of remembrance for a friend and artist who chose Mississippi as his home. Attendees swapped stories, laughed through tears, and found common ground in the work Jack left behind. Many recalled his fiery set at Proud Larry’s 30th anniversary concert in 2023, and the emotional tribute show hosted by local band Rocket 88 after his passing.
Writers who read from the novel included Ace Atkins, William Boyle, John T Edge, Curtis Wilkie, and Michael Farris Smith – who was also the event’s emcee. Plus, bartenders from Jack’s favorite Oxford watering hole City Grocery – Elliot Willard and John “Coonie” Spreafico – contributed, with several other readers including Jack’s daughter Caiti Sonni, and sister Joni Cardella.
More than just a posthumous release, Sagamore stands as a solid literary achievement. Those who attended were not only paying tribute to a friend and neighbor but celebrating the arrival of a voice that, even in silence, still has something powerful to say. By the end of the evening, it was clear that Jack’s literary voice had resonated as strongly as his musical one.
“The turnout for the Sagamore release party was really gratifying,” said Tim Lee, of Cool Dog Sound. “So many people had a hand in making this book happen, and it was great to have them all together with so many others of Jack’s friends and family. The vibe and overall spirit of the event definitely exceeded all expectations.”
Author and musician Michael Farris Smith – who also joined The Leisure Class on vocals for a house-rocking set – said “It was a night that I think is an example of what makes Oxford a special community, celebrating one of our own. I’m sure Jack would have been over the moon with the turnout and the great vibes that rose from the evening.”
The book is available now through cooldogsound.com.
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