This in-person event is a part of the 2026 Virginia Festival of the Book and will take place at the shop.
Award-winning folk and bluegrass musician Alice Gerrard tells her story of the music that has defined her life and career in Custom Made Woman: A Life in Traditional Music. Known for her collaborations with Hazel Dickens, as well as Tommy Jarrell, Enoch Rutherford, Otis Burris, and others, Alice takes us back through the inspirations, the challenges, and the folk festivals that shaped her work. In addition to being a musical trailblazer, Alice is a photographer, and Custom Made Woman is full of her original photographs. Join Alice and Virginia state folklorist Katy Clune for a conversation about music, mentorship, and memories.
For more information, visit vabook.org.
Order the Book Ahead of Time from New Dominion Bookshop
Shop local and support your community bookshop! You can order your books ahead of time for the 2026 Virginia Festival of the Book by filling out the contact form below. Please make sure that you list the book title(s) that you would like to order. We will give you a call when your order is ready. There is no need to pre-pay. We will collect your payment when you pick up your order or when your order is shipped. Books will also be for sale on-site at the event. (There is no need to place an order if you plan to attend the event and purchase books there in person.)