Woodward Library Blog - LibGuides at Austin Peay State University

The Woodward Library Society is honored to welcome author Sharon Mabry back for our Fall Event at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28, in the APSU Art + Design Building's Heydel Hall.

In her program, Finding Your Voice: Stories from The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones, Mabry will reflect on the journey of writing her latest book. She’ll share a selection of readings that highlight its humor and heart, while also offering encouragement and practical tips for anyone curious about writing their own memoir.

About the Book

The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones gathers together a lifetime of experiences, from growing up in the mountains of East Tennessee to navigating the changes of family, marriage, and retirement. Mabry balances moments of tenderness with a sharp sense of humor, showing how even the everyday—like a mischievous family dog or a neighbor’s quirks—can leave lasting impressions. The book has been praised for its warmth and authenticity, with reviewers noting how Mabry’s stories invite readers to reflect on their own lives with both laughter and empathy.

The book has earned widespread praise for its wit and emotional depth. Anna Lee Huber, USA Today bestselling author, describes it as “cozy, comforting, amusing, and brimming with heart,” while author Julia Brewer Daily calls it “poignant, with clever descriptions and sometimes laugh-out-loud humor.” The memoir has also earned national recognition, named a finalist for both Best Autobiography/Memoir and Best Nonfiction Book Cover in the 2024 American Writing Awards. Copies will be available at the event for $15 each, payable by cash or check.

About the Author

Sharon Mabry is an author, acclaimed mezzo-soprano soloist, and longtime educator. Before retiring in 2022, she taught music at Austin Peay State University for 52 years, inspiring generations of students and earning the university’s highest honors for both teaching and creativity. Beyond her memoir, Mabry has written extensively about music and performance, published two scholarly books, and contributed to major music journals.

Her earlier novel, The Postmaster’s Daughter (2022), is a historical mystery set in East Tennessee. It was a finalist for Best Debut Fiction in the American Writing Awards and for the National Indie Excellence Awards. The audiobook, narrated by Mabry herself, is now available on Apple Books and Amazon.

Join Us

Don’t miss this chance to spend an evening with one of APSU’s most distinguished voices. Through humor, storytelling, and honest reflection, Sharon Mabry reminds us that memories shape us—and that sharing them can inspire others to find their own voice.

Event Details
📖 Finding Your Voice: Stories from The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones
📅 Tuesday, October 28
🕠 5:30 - 6:00 p.m. — Reception
6:00 - 6:45 p.m. — Presentation and Questions
6:45 - 7:15 p.m. — Book Signing
📍 Heydel Hall, Art + Design Building, room 120

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Finding Your Voice: Stories from The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones

The Woodward Library Society is honored to welcome author Sharon Mabry back for our Fall Event at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28, in the APSU Art + Design Building's Heydel Hall.In her program, Finding Your Voice: Stories from The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones, Mabry will reflect on the journey of writing her latest book. She’ll share a selection of readings that highlight its humor and heart, while also offering encouragement and practical tips for anyone curious about writing their own memoir.About the BookThe Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones gathers together a lifetime of experiences, from growing up in the mountains of East Tennessee to navigating the changes of family, marriage, and retirement. Mabry balances moments of tenderness with a sharp sense of humor, showing how even the everyday—like a mischievous family dog or a neighbor’s quirks—can leave lasting impressions. The book has been praised for its warmth and authenticity, with reviewers noting how Mabry’s stories invite readers to reflect on their own lives with both laughter and empathy.The book has earned widespread praise for its wit and emotional depth. Anna Lee Huber, USA Today bestselling author, describes it as “cozy, comforting, amusing, and brimming with heart,” while author Julia Brewer Daily calls it “poignant, with clever descriptions and sometimes laugh-out-loud humor.” The memoir has also earned national recognition, named a finalist for both Best Autobiography/Memoir and Best Nonfiction Book Cover in the 2024 American Writing Awards. Copies will be available at the event for $15 each, payable by cash or check.About the AuthorSharon Mabry is an author, acclaimed mezzo-soprano soloist, and longtime educator. Before retiring in 2022, she taught music at Austin Peay State University for 52 years, inspiring generations of students and earning the university’s highest honors for both teaching and creativity. Beyond her memoir, Mabry has written extensively about music and performance, published two scholarly books, and contributed to major music journals. Her earlier novel, The Postmaster’s Daughter (2022), is a historical mystery set in East Tennessee. It was a finalist for Best Debut Fiction in the American Writing Awards and for the National Indie Excellence Awards. The audiobook, narrated by Mabry herself, is now available on Apple Books and Amazon.Join UsDon’t miss this chance to spend an evening with one of APSU’s most distinguished voices. Through humor, storytelling, and honest reflection, Sharon Mabry reminds us that memories shape us—and that sharing them can inspire others to find their own voice.Event Details📖 Finding Your Voice: Stories from The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones📅 Tuesday, October 28🕠 5:30 - 6:00 p.m. — Reception 6:00 - 6:45 p.m. — Presentation and Questions 6:45 - 7:15 p.m. — Book Signing📍 Heydel Hall, Art + Design Building, room 120...

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Finding Your Voice: Stories from The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones

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Finding Your Voice: Stories from The Blue Box and Memories that Live in the Bones

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