The Georgia Writers Association has named "Zenith Man: Death, Love, and Redemption in a Georgia Courtroom" a nominee for the 2025 Georgia Author of the Year Awards (GAYA) in the Memoir category.
Written by former Georgia legislator and criminal defense attorney McCracken Poston, Jr., "Zenith Man: Death, Love, and Redemption in a Georgia Courtroom" tells the true story of Alvin Ridley — a reclusive man from Ringgold who was charged with murdering his wife after she had not been seen in public for three decades.
What followed was a trial that captivated the region and revealed a tragic misunderstanding rooted in undiagnosed autism, agoraphobia and a lifetime of misjudgment.
“It’s an honor to be recognized alongside such personal and important works,” said Mr. Poston. “I hope this helps bring new awareness to Alvin’s story — and to the broader issues it represents.”
Since its publication by Citadel Press in 2024, "Zenith Man: Death, Love, and Redemption in a Georgia Courtroom" has received praise for its exploration of neurodivergence and the justice system. The true story of Mr. Poston's representation of Alvin Ridley has drawn national attention for its "emotional depth, courtroom suspense and revelations that reframed a case many thought they already understood."
The Georgia Author of the Year Awards, now in their 60th year, honor outstanding literary achievement by Georgia writers. Winners will be announced later this summer.