Author Talk | Natola Hawthorne

In this powerful and deeply personal memoir, Natola D. Hawthorne takes readers beyond the lines of the baseball field and into the heart of a journey defined by faith, resilience, and becoming. As the first and only woman of color to umpire Division I baseball, Natola shares what it truly takes to step into spaces where you weren't expected and to remain there with confidence, conviction, and grace. From early uncertainty to defining moments on some of the game's biggest stages, she invites you behind the scenes of a world few get to see. Through quiet reflections, on-field challenges, and life-changing opportunities, this story reveals not just what she's done-but who she had to become along the way. Books will be available for sale and signing. Registration is requested. * By registering, you consent to signing up for the monthly Adult Programs newsletter. In 2023 Natola D. Hawthorne made history as the first woman of color to officiate Division I baseball. Her career has taken her from local parks to some of baseball's most historic venues, including opportunities connected to Rickwood Field and Truist Park. As the founder of She Calls It All, Natola is committed to developing, mentoring, and encouraging women in officiating. Beyond the field, Natola is an educator, speaker, mentor, and lifelong learner who believes officiating is about much more than making the right call. It is about character, integrity, preparation, and the confidence to stand firm when the pressure is greatest. Moderator Renée Hicks is a book lover and influencer who has fostered community in the literary space for nearly eight years. She founded Book Girl Magic, a virtual book club dedicated to celebrating and uplifting Black women authors. What began as her personal mission to spotlight underrepresented voices has grown into a global movement encouraging readers to explore stories beyond their own experiences. With a heart for connection, Renée uses the magic of books to spar