Celebrating the Written Word

The Southern Festival of Books was this past weekend, and like all Festivals, this one was fantastic. The weather was beautiful. The panels were engaging. The books were bountiful. 

It was truly a great event. 

My wife and I were able to browse the vendors for a while, and we caught several sessions. Many of my students and colleagues were around, too, which was a fun addition for this year. 

I had the pleasure of being able to host some sessions. Few things are as motivating to me as a writer as engaging with other writers. 

Speaking of sessions I was able to host, one was with Jolene McIlwain and Mimi Herman. If you haven’t read their work yet, please do. These writers are brilliant, and their work is atmospheric and full of pathos. I was especially drawn to how well both writers capture place, too. Seriously, check out Sidle Creek and The Kudzu Queen. You won’t be disappointed. 

The other session was for the book Welcome to Capitol Hill. Joel and Erik are great writers and nice guys, and it was a pleasure to be able to moderate their panel as well. 

I’m already checking on the dates for 2024’s Festival. I’m very much looking forward to being back in Nashville then.