Salt in the Water Reading Circle: Memphis

Salt in the Water was written to be read, remembered, and talked about.

The Salt in the Water Reading Circle is an intimate Memphis book club experience bringing readers together for thoughtful conversation around the stories, themes, memories, and questions found throughout the book.

This isn't a formal author talk or traditional book signing. It's a space to sit together, talk honestly, revisit the passages that stayed with us, and hear what the book stirred up in someone else.

Our conversations will explore family, ancestry, Black Southern life, memory, community, the things we inherit, the things we question, and what it means to find our way back to ourselves.

Author Melissa N. Joiner will guide the conversation, but the heart of the evening belongs to the readers.

Come ready to talk. Come ready to listen. Come with your book marked up, dog-eared, highlighted—or simply with a few thoughts you haven't been able to shake.

For our first gathering, we'll begin with Part I — The Remembering and explore the memories, people, places, traditions, and inheritances that shape who we become.

You do not have to prepare a formal response. Just read, reflect, and bring whatever stood out to you.

An intimate, relaxed book-club setting; guided discussion led by Melissa N. Joiner; conversation with other Memphis readers; selected discussion prompts inspired by the book; time to connect before and after the discussion; and an opportunity to purchase or have your copy of Salt in the Water signed.

This gathering is for adult readers who enjoy Black literature, Southern storytelling, family stories, ancestry, culture, reflection, and meaningful conversation.

Whether you came to Salt in the Water because something in the story felt familiar or because it introduced you to something entirely new, there's a seat for you at the table.

Need a copy of Salt in the Water before our gathering? Purchase yours here: https://cornerstoneecqa.my.canva.site/saltinthewater

Attendees are encouraged to read Part I — The Remembering before our first gathering.

Please bring your copy of Salt in the Water. Books will also be available for purchase at the event.

Please note: Our discussion may include spoilers from the assigned section.

Free with RSVP

Space is intentionally limited to keep the conversation intimate. Please reserve a seat only if you plan to attend.

Melissa N. Joiner
Author of Salt in the Water: Stories of Ancestry, Reckoning, and Return

Melissa N. Joiner is a Memphis author whose work centers memory, ancestry, Black Southern life, family, and the stories we carry with us.