Some writers have banded together to raise money for the financially troubled Mark Twain House in Hartford, where The Great One wrote such classics as Huckleberry Finn. A Sept. 23 reading will include John Clinch (Finn), Tasha Alexander (Elizabeth: The Golden Age), Kristy Kiernan (Catching Genius) and Stewart O'Nan (Last Night at the Lobster).  

Administrators said in May that even though staffing had been slashed, the Mark Twain House and Museum was having trouble meeting its payroll and paying suppliers, according to the New York Times. They warned that the financial troubles could force the house to close.

I care because I grew up in the area and have spent many hours visiting the house, which would feel right at home in Roland Park. My favorite part: a fireplace whose flue wraps around a large window, so snowflakes seem to fall into the fire. (It's also one of Hartford's few tourist stops besides Laura Vozzella's alma mater and Franklin Ave. Giant Grinder.)

Nancy, I'm sure, cares because she has dubbed Twain a Southerner, like herself. And all Americans should care because Twain is one of our literary legends. If you're free for the reading,  godspeed on I-95. You can also make a contribution at the house's website.