The Northeast Georgia Historical & Genealogical Society is on a mission to show that tracing your family's roots can be fun.

From 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, the group will host its quarterly meeting at the Hall County Library, 127 Main St. in Gainesville, with a presentation by author Gordon Sawyer.

Sawyer has written several historical books, and Tuesday will present highlights from his latest work, "Characters, Crazies and the Culture of Northeast Georgia."

"The stories may be embellished a bit, but they're based on actual individuals of Northeast Georgia," said Marsha Hopkins, Genealogical Society president.

Sawyer's book ties in with the group's goal to show researchers that the names on the pages of census records and deeds represent actual people.

"Some people view genealogy as boring, but we know that those names are actual people," Hopkins said.

"He focused on the people of this region, their personalities and their quirks. That's what really brings the names and information to life."

Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the library, Hopkins says.

The meeting is free and open to the public. The group hopes it will generate interest from new members.

"Our main focus is the study and support of genealogy. We welcome visitors of all ages," Hopkins said.

"We're glad to help people get started with their search."

Annual dues are $20 per person.