You’re Invited - The Trail Within Book Launch & Signing
Updated: Aug 25
I am delighted to invite you to celebrate the launch of my new book, The Trail Within, on Saturday, October 10!
One day after retiring from a 42-year career as an occupational therapist, scholar, and academic leader, I began a solo journey along one of the most rugged and beautiful sections of the Appalachian Trail.
What began as a physical challenge became a profound spiritual pilgrimage—one that revealed the power of surrender, the gift of engagement, and the grace that moves with us even during life’s hardest moments.
At this special event, I will share the story behind the book, talk about the experiences and insights that shaped it, and answer questions from the audience. A book signing will follow the presentation.
Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026
Time: Choose from two sessions: 1:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m.
Where: Blues Creek Clubhouse 7498 NW 50th Street, Gainesville, FL 32653
Each session is limited to only 40 guests, so advance registration is required. Please select the time you would like to attend when making your reservation.
Copies of The Trail Within will be available for purchase at the event. If you already have a copy, please bring it with you for Sherrilene to sign.
We hope you’ll join us for this inspiring afternoon of stories, reflection, conversation, and connection as we celebrate Sherrilene and The Trail Within.
With gratitude,
Sherrilene
The Reviews Are In!
The reviews are in—and readers are connecting deeply with Sherrilene Classen’s new book, The Trail Within.
Through honest reflections, hard-earned wisdom, and lessons gathered one step at a time, Sherrilene invites us to consider our own journeys: what we carry, what we leave behind, and how we keep moving forward when the path becomes difficult.
Here is what readers are saying:
May from Gainesville writes, "I truly enjoyed reading The Trail Within. Its unique format resonated deeply with me because it felt so much like the way thoughts actually unfold inside my own head—honest, fluid, reflective, and wonderfully spectomagnubulous. I think many readers will see a mirror of themselves in these thoughts and easily connect them to their own everyday experiences. The book is flowing and easy to read, yet full of wisdom that stays with you."
"I learned that freedom emerges by leaving something behind, that engagement means showing up with all of yourself, and that control is ultimately an illusion. ‘Preparation is never rewarded with predictability’ was perhaps my favorite line, along with the spot-on definition of grit as taking the next step when you desperately want to stop."
“I marked so many passages that I know I’ll return to whenever I need one of those reminders—and perhaps exactly the voice I need to hear in that moment.”
Kabita writes, “Sometimes your instincts tell you to reach out to someone because what they are doing looks adventurous, inspiring, and almost unachievable. That was how I felt about Sherrilene. I hesitated before reaching out, wondering how I would be received and whether I would be met with questions or judgment. Instead, I was welcomed and became part of something much bigger than a trip."
“What started as a simple connection turned into an experience filled with moments I will carry with me for life. This book is a reflection of that journey and of the unexpected connections that can become some of life’s defining moments."
“This is my personal experience with Sherrilene and this book—the perfect excuse to settle into my swing chair and relive some trail memories.”
Whether you are navigating a challenging season, seeking inspiration, or simply looking for a meaningful and uplifting read, The Trail Within offers wisdom you can return to again and again.
Order your copy today and begin your own journey within.
Happy trails,
Sherrilene Classen, PhD
Author of The Trail Within
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