Meet Authors at the Central States Fair

The Literacy Division hosts “Meet the Authors” sessions in addition to literacy entries during the Central States Fair.

Anyone can come and chat with 6 local authors at the Palais des Beaux-Arts.

Authors will talk about their personal journeys in writing and discuss their books with a question-and-answer session.

Writers will give of their time to open up the world of writing.

Literacy Committee Superintendent Betty Bowers says, “As we read and write, we understand better what we are reading and what the other person is writing. understanding that is developing in the world of literacy,“, she continues, “These people, who are already established, can really go about developing that enthusiasm for reading and writing.“

Authors will have their book on sale in the Palais des Beaux-Arts for the duration of the Salon.

Renie Smith, local author, says, “We can tell them about ourselves and our books, and we can answer questions and you know, maybe that’ll encourage people to try theirs. You know I published three books when I was 76 so I’m proof that you’re not too old so hopefully that will be a factor as well that they see you don’t have to give up on that dream you had 30 years ago.“

BJ Reese, local author, adds, “And people can learn from your experiences, your traumas, your healings, your survivals and that’s what I hope my books will do. I’m – my hope for coming out of the ashes is that when people read it, they will realize that nothing in this journey called life is a waste, but it’s up to us to decide if it’s a waste or no.“

Other open class divisions include painting, photography, gardening, and more.

Jamie Duprey will present on Tuesdays August 24 and 25 at 2:30 p.m.

Pennie Hunt will present on Sunday August 22 at 1:00 p.m. and Monday August 23 at 2:30 p.m.

Shawn Michael will be presenting Friday August 27 and Saturday August 28 at 1:00 p.m.

Renie Smith will present Thursday August 26 and Saturday August 28 at 2:30 p.m.

BJ Reese will present on Monday August 23, Wednesday August 25 and Friday August 27 – all at 1:00 p.m.

Dee Dee Fox will present on Sunday August 22 at 2:30 p.m. and Tuesday August 24 at 1:00 p.m.