When I found out one of my fav childhood authors, Judy Blume, would be reading at this year’s National Book Festival, I was beyond tickled. As if I needed more convincing, I found that President Obama and first lady Michelle will be co-hosting the event!
Now in it’s 9th year, the fest will also feature Newbury Medal winner Lois Lowry, author of The Giver. Latina writer Julia Alvarez will read to the masses, as well as Kay Ryan, who is in her second year as poet laureate. Another lady you shouldn’t miss is poet Patricia Smith, who chronicled the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in her book Blood Dazzler. Paula Deen is scheduled to make an appearance, too, perhaps to recite a poetic rendition of a chicken pot pie recipe. Who knows?
The event is free, and kicks off at 10AM on Saturday, September 26th. Who wants to join me in celebrating the joys of reading? We can dot our faces with a blue marker, Freckle Juice style, for the Judy Blume book signing. Come on, it’ll be fun.
Image Courtesy of The Library of Congress.
