Memphis begins in 1995, when narrator Joan, her mother, and her younger sister flee domestic violence and return to the family home in Memphis. Encompassing seventy years, Memphis shifts back and forth in time. The novel explores the complexity of heritage, not only in families, but in our country: police brutality and justice, powerlessness and freedom, fate and forgiveness, doubt and faith, sacrifice and love. Author Tara M. Stringfellow is a former attorney, a graduate of Northwestern University’s MFA program, and a poet. Memphis is based on her own Civil Rights family history.

Guest presenter Brigette Jones is Director of Equitable Partnerships at Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery, Nashville.