Book Launch: She Called Me Throwaway: A Memoir by Shama Shams

Folio: The Seattle Athenaeum invites you to celebrate the launch of debut author Shama Shams's memoir She Called Me Throwaway. 

At the young age of ten, Shama's family moved from Bangladesh to Memphis, Tennessee. Shama's memoir explores childhood in Bangladesh, her family's journey from east to west, war, loss, identity, religion and the pursuit of the American dream.

Shama Shams, a debut author residing in Seattle, holds a Master’s in Religion specializing in Islam from Florida State University. Her memoirs have been featured in esteemed publications, including Palooka, Transformation, Fiction Fix, and Mandala Literary Journal. Notably, she reached the finals of the Black Warrior Review. The Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference at the University of North Texas selected her book proposal and four essays.

Shams captivated audiences at the Dallas Museum of Arts and the AT&T Performing Arts Center, where she read excerpts from her memoir to sold-out crowds. These readings, titled "Lost in Translation," "Elephant in the Room," and "Old School," were recorded and can be viewed on the YouTube channel "Oral Fixation (An Obsession with True Life Tales)." Additionally, she shared parts of her memoir at Truth in Comedy, a show showcasing nonfiction writers.

Aside from her writing pursuits, Shams has dedicated two decades to the nonprofit sector, advocating for and raising funds for marginalized communities. Her expertise and passion in this field led to the publication of her book, "Nonprofit Fundraising - Lessons from the Trenches," earlier this year. Furthermore, she hosts the podcast "From Passion to Purpose," highlighting the impactful work of nonprofit leaders in the community.

Shama is a mother to two daughters, who are her utmost pride and joy. Outside of her busy work schedule, she cherishes spending quality time with her family, including her husband, their beloved golden retriever, Barack, and their cat, Rani.