Nashville, TN
(615) 320-7001 ext. 12
When planning literary tours, it is easy to think historically. We go to historic homes, dine in restaurants where literary figures frequented, and sign the guest register of hotels where our favorite authors completed outstanding manuscripts. However, there is one present-day literary tour opportunity that you shouldn't overlook--a state or regional book festival.
The Southern Festival of Books, held annually in Nashville, Tennessee, is perhaps the largest regional book festival in the southeast. Here on the second weekend of October, fans can meet and talk with approximately 250 contemporary authors, editors, and publishers.
For three days, a wide variety of talks, readings, and panel discussions are held in rooms under War Memorial Plaza and in the State Capitol. After each session, featured authors sign their books on the plaza.
This festival has featured authors from all over the world including Joyce Carol Oates, William Styron, Chris Van Allsburg, and Paul O. Zelinsky. Editors and staff from Random House, HarperCollins, Algonquin, and other publishing companies are also available to speak and answer questions.
Check with your local library, arts council, or area tourist bureaus to find out dates for state or regional book festivals in your area.
Three Kinds of Festivals
Just like books, each festival is different; however, they do seem to fall into three fairly easy to define categories.
- Literary Festivals often focus on the historical works of one author or one genre of literature. Here you will find discussions, presentations, and special events that interest scholars and fans.
- Book Festivals often feature many contemporary authors and genres. Here, too, you will find discussions, presentations, and special events that interest scholars and fans. You will also be able to purchase books and have authors sign them at book festivals.
- Book Fairs feature a variety of books, publishers, and sometimes offer presentations by book specialists--calligraphers, bookbinders, and historians. You will be able to purchase contemporary and rare books at book fairs.
Copyright 2000 by Ella Robinson
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