UAH Honors College, in collaboration with Calhoun Community College, is hosting a student-organized conference on this year's common read, James McBride's 'The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store', on Friday, Nov. 15, and Saturday, Nov. 16.

In connection with this event, Alabama Poet Laureate Ashley M. Jones will deliver the keynote address on the transformative power of storytelling and poetry in constructing identity, building community, and sharing histories. The keynote address is a free event, open to the public, and will be held on UAH's campus in Morton Hall on Friday at 7 pm. A book signing and light reception will take place after the keynote.