PHOENIX, Ariz. — Bestselling author Trisha R. Thomas, whose debut novel Nappily Ever After inspired the Netflix film starring Sanaa Lathan and Lynn Whitfield, launched the first stop of her 25th anniversary tour in Phoenix at Grassrootz Books & Café.
The celebration honored the enduring impact of Thomas’s groundbreaking first book, which continues to resonate with readers for its themes of identity, beauty, self-acceptance and personal transformation. Hosted by Bri Glo of Sistas Seeking Phoenix, the Phoenix event brought together readers, film fans and community members for an evening centered on literature, culture and conversation.
Guests participated in a discussion of the novel and its film adaptation, viewed selected clips from the movie, and joined Thomas for a book signing, photo booth experience, refreshments and an audience Q&A. The event marked the beginning of a commemorative tour recognizing 25 years since Nappily Ever After first introduced readers to a story that helped shape conversations around Black women’s hair, beauty standards and self definition.
Trisha R. Thomas shared that “Phoenix was so welcoming and a great place to kickoff my 25th Anniversary Tour”
Grassrootz Books & Café served as a fitting host for the tour kickoff, offering a community-centered space for readers to celebrate a beloved novel and its lasting cultural influence. The event was organized and moderated by Bri Glo of Sistas Seeking PHX, who guided the conversation through the book’s legacy, the film’s reach and the personal reflections sparked by Thomas’s work.
Nappily Ever After was adapted into a film released by Netflix in 2018 and features performances by Sanaa Lathan and Lynn Whitfield. The story has remained a touchstone for readers and viewers exploring the relationship between hair, confidence, freedom and self-love.
About Trisha R. Thomas
Trisha R. Thomas is the bestselling author of Nappily Ever After and numerous other novels. Her work is known for memorable characters, emotionally resonant storytelling, and thoughtful exploration of identity, family, culture, and transformation.
About Sistas Seeking PHX
Sistas Seeking PHX is a movement dedicated to uplifting Black women through fitness, fellowship, and community outreach. Founder Bri Glo started off selling t-shirts to fund a local food pantry in South Phoenix. They have now grown into a vibrant community of over 5,000 women who are building connections, finding new friends, and healing the past so we can all have a better future. Their mission is to empower women to thrive mentally, spiritually, and physically while celebrating the unique beauty and culture of Phoenix.
About Grassrootz Books & Café
Grassrootz Books & Café is a Black-owned community bookstore and café in Phoenix, Arizona, known for bringing readers, authors and community members together through books, culture and conversation.
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