Book Release Celebration: Howdy! The Minnie Peal Story!

Blount Mansion will host a book celebration for "Howdy! The Minnie Pearl Story!" with authors Mary Ellen Pethel and Don Cusic. Born Sarah Ophelia Colley in 1912, she grew up in Centerville, Tennessee. The small-town upbringing inspired Minnie Pearl's imagined hometown of Grinder’s Switch. Rich with 155 historic photographs, this definitive biography covers the many chapters of her life. Drawing from archives and interviews with those who knew her, "Howdy! The Minnie Pearl Story," captures not only her enduring humor and impact, but also the woman behind the laughter.

Mary Ellen Pethel is an associate professor and academic leader at Belmont University where she directs interdisciplinary initiatives, including the Global Honors Program. An award-winning author of six books on education, women, and sports, her most recent book is "Title IX, Pat Summitt, and Tennessee’s Trailblazers."

Don Cusic is the Curb Professor of Music Industry History at Belmont University, where he teaches in the music business program and serves as a leading scholar of American popular music. The author of nearly 30 books, his work has shaped the field of country music studies for over three decades. His recent titles include "Chet Atkins: Mr. Guitar and The Nashville Sound"

The event is a collaboration with UT Press. Limited free parking is available onsite. A $10 donation is suggested at the door; cash and card accepted. RSVP to [email protected].