The University of Alabama Press Releases Of Mules and Mud: The Story of Alabama Folk Potter Jerry Brown

Of Mules and Mud: The Story of Alabama Folk Potter Jerry Brown (March 2022), edited by Joey Brackner, tells the life story of the potter Jerry Brown, as told in his own words. Folklorist Joey Brackner met Brown in 1983, and the two quickly became close friends who collaborated together on a variety of documentary and educational projects in succeeding years—efforts that led to greater exposure, commercial success, and Brown’s recognition as a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment for the Arts. For years, Brown spoke of the urge to write his life story, but he never set pen to paper. In 2015, Brackner took the initiative and interviewed Brown, recording his life story over the course of a weekend at Brown’s home. 

Of Mules and Mud is the result of that marathon interview session, conducted one year before Brown passed away. Brackner has captured Jerry Brown’s life in his own words as recounted that weekend, lightly edited and elaborated. Of Mules and Mud is illustrated with photos from all phases of Brown’s life, including a color gallery of 28 photos of vessel forms made by Brown throughout his career that collectors of folk pottery will find invaluable.

Visit The University of Alabama Press to learn more and purchase a copy.