Four Franklin-area authors will share their stories at a free public event Monday, Oct. 26, at the Williamson County Public Library.

The African American Heritage Society of Williamson County (AAHS) is hosting its October Porch Talk, titled "A Few Local Authors and Their Stories," at 6 p.m. at the library, 1314 Columbia Ave. in Franklin. The event celebrates National Book Month, as first reported by the Williamson Herald.

"We are excited to celebrate these four local authors and provide an opportunity for the community to hear their stories," Alma McLemore, president of the African American Heritage Society of Williamson County, told the Williamson Herald.

The lineup spans coloring books, faith, music-industry memoir and grief.

Jameshia Johnson, a Franklin native and lifelong Williamson County resident, owns JamSession Esthetics and created the coloring book "Sunday Vibes and Pink Collar Jobs."

Netareka Shalon Johnson is a speaker and beauty-industry professional with more than 25 years of experience. Her book, "Beauty and the Kingdom: A Journey to Beauty & Purpose," explores faith and personal transformation.

Pamela Lewis will discuss her books "America's First Rockstar" and "Ben Franklin Visits Franklin for a Day." Lewis helped launch MTV as part of its original publicity and marketing team from 1980 to 1984, according to a Music Row profile. She later joined RCA Records in Nashville, where she worked with Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, The Judds and Alabama. In 1985 she founded PLA Media, and in 1987 she co-managed an unknown singer named Garth Brooks, guiding him to superstardom. Lewis also served Franklin as alderman-at-large and vice mayor. She is a member of the AAHS book club.

Rae Sanchez is a community advocate whose work has focused on poverty reduction and homelessness services. Her memoir, "Chasing Down Joy," explores the grief of losing a child and the journey toward healing. Sanchez is also an AAHS book club member.

The monthly Porch Talk series brings together historians, authors and community members to explore African American history, culture and historic preservation, according to the Heritage Society.

Upcoming community events:

  • Monday, Oct. 26 — AAHS Porch Talk, "A Few Local Authors and Their Stories," 6 p.m., Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin. Free.
  • Wednesday, Oct. 28 — Free trick-or-treat trail at The Factory at Franklin.