This time last year, thousands of book lovers flooded the National Mall for one of the largest literary festivals in the country – and they’re preparing to do it again.
Organized by first lady Laura Bush and the Library of Congress, the Mall will play host to the National Book Festival this Saturday, Sept. 30 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine.
For many bibliophiles, this is a chance to meet their favorite authors. More than 70 award-winning authors, illustrators and poets will speak and sign books in the eight pavilions in the area.
Rosalind Wiseman, author of the book that inspired the box-office hit Mean Girls, is just one of many presenters speaking.
If thrillers interest you, head over to the mysteries and thrillers pavilion to see Michael Connelly, author of the best-selling Harry Bosch series.
Those interested in women’s studies should plan on checking out Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchinson’s presentation. Not only did she go down in history as the first female senator from Texas, but she also wrote about other influential women in American Heroines: The Spirited Women Who Shaped Our Country.
Poetry lovers should make a point of seeing Donald Hall, recently appointed Poet Laureate, at the poetry pavilion from noon to 1 p.m.
History buffs and journalism majors will delight at the chance to meet Bob Woodward, Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post reporter and editor, notable for uncovering the Watergate scandal with Carl Bernstein.
It isn’t only the literary greats who come to schmooze – world-renowned chefs, political satirists and financial experts will be there as well.
Admission is free. For additional information, visit www.loc.gov/bookfest.
– By Iby Mihaly
