The Capital BookFest is a hit

October 4, 1:24 AMDC Publishing Industry ExaminerWendy Coakley-Thompson

Previous Next

4 comments Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the DC Publishing Industry Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

Liza Mundy, author of the biography Michelle, appeared at
Saturday's Capital BookFest

For the fifth year, the Capital BookFest did not disappoint.

Held Saturday on the grounds of the Boulevard at the Capital Centre in Largo, MD, the Capital BookFest offered up a day of readings, panel discussions, children's storytelling, conversations, and authors’ talks. From its epicenter – Borders Books – the BookFest supplied a healthy dose of poets, activists, literary and contemporary fiction authors, biographers, memoirists, poets, and writers of how-to tomes with the goal of fulfilling the its mission: Strengthening families through reading.

From ten in the morning to well after 7:00 PM, Capital BookFest producer Kwame Alexander, along with a diligent staff and unflappable volunteers, ensured that the day provided literary fare for every taste. Heavy hitters like comedian-turned-author Tim Reid (Tim & Tom), Liza Mundy (Michelle), and Connie Briscoe (Sisters and Husbands) occupied the Mainstage within Borders Books. The more intimate Literary Café within the store showcased the talents of authors like Victoria Christopher Murray (Lady Jasmine) and Booker T. Mattison (Unsigned Hype). The BookFest also catered to the needs of children – as well as some of their overwrought parents – with the bright and inviting Kidszone. Charisse Carney-Nunes (I am Barack Obama) and Shane Evans (Olu’s Dream), among others, entertained the smaller fans.

From Borders, the BookFest radiated out to tents pitched al fresco under the brilliant blue October day. There, over 70 exhibitors displayed their wares, authors signed their works, and writers of how-to books like Colorado Kitchen chef Gillian Clark (Out of the Frying Pan) held interactive chats, complete the fruits of their labors. Clark even proffered jerk chicken wings to those lucky enough to attend her presentation in the Write On! Tent.
 

For five years, the Capital BookFest has given both local and non-local authors a chance to shine in the DC area. Its model has proven to be so successful that next year, the event expands to two other cities beyond DC: Charleston, SC and Harrisburg, PA. For 2009 though, Alexander and his staff, along with The Washington Post and a select group of other sponsors, can give themselves a much-deserved pat on the back for a job well done.