Joyce A. Connelley
Sometimes, the most powerful stories aren’t born from fiction but from the raw, unfiltered truth of a life lived. Joyce A. Connelley’s memoir, “Reunion in Stringtown: Finding Faith, Family, and Healing,” captures that essence, earning her the coveted "Best Book" award at the Texas Authors Museum & Institute of History’s 12th Annual Book Contest.
At the heart of Connelley’s memoir is a 25-year search for her birth family — a journey that takes her from sunny California to a one-room schoolhouse in East Texas. Along the way, she delves into themes of identity, belonging, trauma, and healing, exploring what it truly means to find one’s place in the world. What sets this book apart, however, is the way it ties these personal struggles to broader societal conversations about adoption, religious hypocrisy, and the complicated dynamics within families. It’s an unflinching look at what happens when the past calls you back home.
"Reunion in Stringtown is a powerful, emotionally charged memoir that excels in authenticity, emotional depth, and character development," the judges commented. "Joyce A. Connelley’s candid exploration of her life’s struggles and triumphs resonates deeply, offering both personal catharsis and universal lessons about healing and self-discovery."
For those eager to dive into Connelley’s compelling narrative, “Reunion in Stringtown” is available in e-book and paperback formats on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. And if you're local to Colleyville, you can grab an autographed copy at Marshall Grain Company, where Joyce serves as vice president of marketing.
“I’m honored to be recognized by the Texas Authors Museum & Institute of History and to be included among the other incredible authors celebrated in this year’s Texas Book Contest,” she shared. “The journey of sharing my story has been deeply personal, and to have it recognized in this way feels like a beautiful affirmation. I'm grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way.”
