James Alexander Thom, author of “Follow the River,” a historical novel about Mary Draper Ingles, will speak Saturday, May 1, at a fundraiser celebrating the frontierswoman.

The event begins at 5 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar followed by Thom’s talk, a book sale, and author signing at Bakers’ Best Catering Center located at 6226 University Park Drive in Fairlawn. Tickets are $30 per person and must be purchased in advance at the Radford Visitor’s Center housed at Glencoe Museum, 600 Unruh Drive in Radford.

The former newspaper and magazine editor is considered one of Indiana’s best-selling authors. Thom has written seven books, including the novel about Ingles, which is now in its 37th printing. He also has taught at Indiana University in Bloomington.

Ingles and her husband eventually returned to land they owned along the New River in Radford and began operating Ingles Ferry. The historic farm, located just off Interstate 81, Exit 105, remains in the family and is open periodically to the public as part of Cabin Days. On the day of Thom’s talk, the homestead will be open extended hours from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for tours of Mary’s rebuilt cabin and farming demonstrations.

For more information about tickets to the author’s talk, call the Radford Visitor’s Center at 540.267.3153.