Books are the quietest and most constant of friends... and the most patient of teachers.

Charles W. Eliot

Programs and Activities

Author Appearances

More than 50 writers, poets, scholars and industry professionals will read from and discuss their works throughout the day in covered tents scattered across Old Alabama Town’s historic grounds. A full appearance schedule will be available at the festival gate.

Awards Ceremony for PBS Writing Contest

Join us as we recognize a new generation of writers during the presentation of the PBS KIDS GO! Writers’ Contest. Sponsored by PBS and WNED, the program encourages children in grades K-3 to explore their power of creativity by writing and illustrating their own stories.

Booksellers

Books by every featured author will be available for purchase, courtesy of locally owned Capitol Book & News. A portion of the proceeds go back to support the festival.

Book Signings

Authors will be available to signs books purchased at the festival, as well as those brought from home. A schedule of book signings will be available at the festival gate.

Children’s Activities

Meeting a “real-life” author is a formative experience for children and adolescents. In addition to meeting some of their favorite authors, children will enjoy an activity area organized by Alabama Public Television that features educational games, arts and crafts, and appearances by costumed literary characters such as the Cat in the Hat, Arthur and Clifford. Adjacent Kiwanis Park also offers a unique playground where kids can burn off energy.

Exhibitors

A number of exhibitors will promote their book and literary organizations at the event. Vendors will also be on hand to sell books and other items of interest to booklovers of all ages.

Printmaking

Amos Kennedy of Kennedy Prints will be back this year with his popular letterpress. Guests will enjoy seeing the letterpress in action as Mr. Kennedy makes commemorative posters of the festival and other works of art.

Refreshments

Food vendors will offer items available for purchase. Picnic tables will be available for dining. Guests may also bring their own picnic faire and enjoy blanket picnicking in Kiwanis Park.

Writing Workshop for Teachers

On the Friday before the festival, April 15, 2011, Alabama teachers of grades 6-12 are invited to spend the day with some of the festival authors to learn creative writing techniques and strategies for the classroom. For more information on this free workshop, contact the Alabama Writer's Forum toll-free at 1-866-901-1117.

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