2011 Empire State Book Festival

The New York Library Association sponsored the second Empire State Book Festivalin Albany, NY on April 1-2. Authors, illustrators, librarians, storytellers, publishers and booklovers met at the Empire State Convention Center and shared readings, author signings and special presentations. Adult, children’s and young adult authors participated in the festival. The festival began with a morning keynote presentation by Ann M. Martin, author of the Babysitter Club books.

Julie Chibbaro, author of the YA novel “Deadly,” spoke on a panel about using historical fiction to examine real history in New York City. Chibbaro’s novel explored themes of feminism and women’s struggles to be taken seriously in male dominated fields, set against the backdrop of a 16-year-old girl who becomes an integral part of breaking the Typhoid Mary case. Follow the link for a full review of the book.

Local poet and College of Saint Rose Professor Daniel Nester read from his work in a panel highlighting the Best American Poetry.

Coleen Paratore, of Troy, moderated a panel called Fiction 2 Film. The three panelists all had their books optioned for feature films. Rachel Cohn co-authored “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist” and Ned Vizzini wrote, “It’s Kind of a Funny Story,” both books that have seen theatrical releases. Jarret Krosoczka has had two books optioned for movies, one animated and one live-action, and both are currently being developed. Local Capital District author Paratore’s book “The Wedding Planner’s Daughter” is also being made into a movie. Paratore was profiled for the examiner here.

Local YA author Eric Luper, along with Shannon Delany, Shari Maurer, and Selene Castrovilla answered questions about Writing for Teens. Albany resident Luper is the author of “Seth Baumgartner’s Love Manifesto,” “Bug Boy” and “Big Slick.” Read more about Luper in this author spotlight.

The Empire State Book Festival wrapped up a successful day with a keynote address by singer/author Roseanne Cash. Cash spoke about her father’s love of books and reading and how that influenced her own reading.