Twain delights patrons of S. Tahoe library

McAvoy Layne as Mark Twain entertains library supporters Nov. 3. Photo/Denise Haerr

Sprinkling a bit of truth with a ton of humor, the sold-out crowd was transported to a time with Mark Twain walked the shores of Lake Tahoe.

McAvoy Layne entertained a large group Sunday at a fundraiser for the South Lake Tahoe Library. He is a legendary Twain impersonator.

Sharing his take on what happened when a fire that Twain and a friend started got out of control, Layne said, “I like to take credit for the first prescribed burn up here.”

Sitting in the library chairs and couches, enjoying adult beverages and hearty appetizers, it was a bit like an adult storytime as Layne carried on about days gone by.

The second volume of Twain’s autobiography came out this fall, with the third and final volume set for release in 2016. Asked why his words are being published more than 100 years after his death, Layne said, “Because only a dead man can tell the truth.”

The money raised from the Nov. 3 event will be used by Friends of the Library to bring programs to the South Lake Tahoe Library.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report