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Pinehurst Today
By the People, for the People
Local Author Publishes Second Novel at 88
Phyllis Olson's new book 'On Adelphi Road' continues the story of the Evans family through the Great Depression and World War II.
Apr. 15, 2026 at 3:25pm
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A vibrant pop art celebration of an 88-year-old author's literary accomplishments and the timeless stories she brings to life.Pinehurst TodayPinehurst resident Phyllis Olson, 88, has published her second novel 'On Adelphi Road' after debuting as a novelist at age 86 with 'The Faded Blue House'. Olson's new book continues the story of the Evans family as they navigate the hardships of the Great Depression and World War II. A retired special education teacher, Olson has been writing since childhood and was inspired to turn her short stories into novels after her husband shared a poignant story from one of his medical transport passengers.
Why it matters
Olson's work, while fictional, is rooted in the historical experiences of her generation and she feels a sense of urgency to preserve these stories before they are lost. Her novels offer a message of hope, resilience and the importance of community during difficult times, which she believes the world needs today.
The details
Olson began collecting stories from her own childhood and the experiences of people around her, all with a common thread of young people navigating hardship during the Great Depression. These moments coalesced into her first novel 'The Faded Blue House', which she self-published with the help of a local writer after unsuccessful attempts to find a traditional publisher. Olson's second book 'On Adelphi Road' continues the Evans family's story, and the author credits her friends, family and local writers groups for supporting her through the publishing process. Watercolor illustrations for both books were created by a friend at Olson's retirement community.
- Olson published her debut novel 'The Faded Blue House' at age 86.
- Olson published her second novel 'On Adelphi Road' in January 2026 at age 88.
- Olson held a book signing and reception for 'On Adelphi Road' at her church on March 14, 2026.
The players
Phyllis Olson
An 88-year-old Pinehurst resident who has published two novels, 'The Faded Blue House' and 'On Adelphi Road', drawing inspiration from stories of the Great Depression and World War II.
Helen Pardue
A friend of Olson's at Penick Village who created the watercolor illustrations for both of Olson's novels.
What they’re saying
“Many of her characters (Phoebe, Faith-Anne, Georgette and Grandpa) make me celebrate all the 'unsung heroes' of our lives, people who behind the scenes keep us strong and safe.”
— The Rev. Colette Bachand, Book Reviewer
“Reading 'On Adelphi Road' feels like being wrapped in a warm quilt and handed a cup of favorite tea.”
— The Rev. Colette Bachand, Book Reviewer
What’s next
Copies of 'The Faded Blue House' and 'On Adelphi Road' are available at The Country Bookshop. Olson also makes appearances at public and private author events and is available to speak to groups.
The takeaway
Olson's novels offer a heartwarming message of hope, resilience and community during difficult times, drawing from the real-life experiences of her generation. Her work serves as an important preservation of history and a reminder of the unsung heroes who keep us strong.
