Unraveling the Mystery of Our Lives
February 17-20, 2005

In its thirteenth year, Southern Voices is a four-day conference exploring the characteristics of southern culture as reflected in our contemporary arts. Sponsored by Hoover Public Library, the conference brings together a chorus of artistic voices - writers, editors, performers, and public figures - to create a full and open dialogue on the relevance of our regional past to Southern art and culture today.

The conference opens on Thursday, February 17, with a reception honoring Southern Voices Artist Mary Ann Pope. Ms. Pope is an award-winning Alabama artist who works in watercolor, acrylic, and oil. The reception, catered by O’Carr’s, will be held in the Friends’ Gallery on the Theatre Level of the Hoover Public Library. The exhibit of her work will run in the Gallery through the month of March.

Southern Voices 2005 continues Friday evening, February 18, with Kathy Reichs in The Library Theatre. Kathy is a noted forensic anthropologist and the best-selling author of the Temperance Brennan novels, including the recently released Monday Mourning. Her work as a forensic anthropologist is internationally recognized. She has traveled to Guatemala to identify individuals from mass graves and has done forensic work at Ground Zero in New York. Reichs has also identified war dead from World War II and Vietnam. As a novelist, she draws heavily on her years spent at the autopsy table and as a frequent expert witness in criminal trials. A book signing and reception follows Reichs’ presentation.

The Author Conference Saturday, February 19, begins at 8:30 a.m. and features authors Steve Berry, author of The Amber Room and The Romanov Prophecy; Marshall Boswell, author of Alternative Atlanta; Marshall Chapman, author of Goodbye, Little Rock n’ Roller; Carter Coleman, author of Cage’s Bend; Judy Goldman, author of Early Leaving; Nanci Kincaid, author of As Hot As It Was, You Ought to Thank Me; Cassandra King, author of The Sunday Wife and Same Sweet Girls; Michael Parker, author of Virginia Lovers; and James Whorton, author of Frankland. The day also includes lunch, book sales, and book signings.

Grammy award nominee Odetta performs Saturday evening at 8 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. One of the most influential artists of the 20th century, Odetta is truly a living legend. Called "the mother goddess of American folk and blues," her songs include He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands and This Little Light of Mine. She has influenced artists ranging from Bob Dylan to Tracy Chapman and Jewel.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 8. Seating is limited, so please order early. An Evening with Dr. Kathy Reichs - $25 per person, includes reception; Author Conference - $35 per person, includes lunch; Odetta In Concert - $20 per person.

For conference information, visit www.southernvoices.info  or call 205-444-7820.

For tickets, call 205-444-7888.