SPRINGFIELD –– Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White has announced that writers of many genres, including mystery, romance, history, politics, science fiction, sports, cooking, gardening and children's books, will participate in the sixth Illinois Authors Book Fair Saturday, October 27th at the Illinois State Library in Springfield.
"We have a wealth of literary talent in Illinois, and it is a pleasure to showcase our gifted authors each year at the Illinois Authors Book Fair," White said. "The Book Fair has grown in popularity each year, and has quickly become a staple on the fall calendars of book lovers and families throughout Illinois. An extra hour has been added to this year's festivities, which are free and open to the public and will run from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
"Almost 60 different authors representing a variety of genres will take part this year. The Book Fair represents fantastic, free fun for the entire family, and I hope parents, grandparents, children and families from throughout the state will join me as we shine a spotlight on the incredible talents of our Illinois authors."
This year's featured author, Decatur native Richard Peck, received international acclaim earlier this year as the winner of the 2001 Newbery Medal, the highest achievement in children's literature, for his work A Year Down Yonder. Peck's newest work, Fair Weather, will also be available for signing and purchase at the Book Fair.
All of the participating authors will autograph their books and personally meet with book lovers. The authors will present numerous workshops and panel discussions on subjects including the James Bond phenomenon, writing books for children, cooking, gardening, the Second Golden Age of Mystery, humor and fiction and political writing.
Other highlights include:
- Rare book appraisals ($1 per book)
- A performance by the Jesse White Tumbling Team
- The Elsenpeter Marionettes performing Tom Sawyer
- A hiking, biking and backpacking workshop
- Children's storyteller Mike Anderson
The traditional buffet reception honoring participating Book Fair authors will be held Friday, October 26th at 5:30 p.m. in the atrium of the State Library. Profits from an auction of signed books and book related items will benefit the Illinois Center for the Book, and help expand the Illinois Authors Collection at the State Library. Tickers to the buffet reception are $50, half of which is tax deductible. Contact Carole Gair at 217-785-6925 for information on both the Friday night reception and Saturday's events.
