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Readers Take Note

W.Va. Book Festival to promote local authors

The Inter-Mountain photos by Shannon Bennett Campbell Authors from throughout the state will attend and have their latest book editions for sale.

The old Charleston Civic Center will once again be home to a unique festival promoting West Virginia authors and books. From Oct. 26-27, a multitude of native writers will exhibit their latest editions of fiction, biography and informational books to increase the knowledge base about our state and its people at the annual West Virginia Book Festival.

Most residents do not realize how many writers exist in West Virginia. The West Virginia Writers Inc. has a large membership and are among those represented at this showcase. Those interested in joining the group will find their booth and a welcome to become a member and attend their yearly retreat at Cedar Lakes in Ripley each summer.

Other participants in this three-day exhibit are several publishing companies who are available to discuss terms of printing manuscripts for nominal fees. It behooves the novice writer to contact these companies to find one that will support them. These initial contacts are an important part of the event.

Buses of school children are unloaded at the center’s arena on Friday, and most circle the floor looking for one or more books to take home to read. It is exciting to watch the children make decisions about which book takes their eye. Many of their teachers are members of the State Reading Council and are pleased to bring them to such a rich bastion of selection possibilities.

Another of the event’s features is an open used-book area where hundreds of second-hand publications are available on a multitude of topics for very low fees. One of the center’s large exhibit rooms houses these that are sorted by subject matter and provided for attendees’ convenience. There is no question that many who visit the book extravaganza do so just to purchase these used books.

Publishers invite new manuscripts for review by promising writers.

This is a wonderful and colorful place to shop for Christmas items and since many authors attend, almost every purchase can be signed by the book’s writer. All age groups are represented, and one can be assured of finding what they desire.

A drive down I-79 at this time of year is also a showcase of autumn’s best coloration, so enjoyment will be assured. And, remember the big ice-cream cones one can get at the Flatwood’s Amish store on the way with more than 20 flavors from which to choose.

When entering the Charleston city limits, watch for the Washington Street exit. Parking is available at both the old Civic Center and the Town Center Mall nearby.

Plan for an enjoyable time in our State Capital and gain an appreciation for all those who compose words that provide meaning to life. As 1957 Nobel Prize winner for Literature Albert Camus reminds us, “Those who write clearly have readers.” No doubt some of these folks will greet you at this festival.

Used books by the hundreds on varied subjects are available at large discounted prices.

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