City of McKinney, TX
07/29/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/28/2024 23:10
McKinney Literary Fest |Aug. 17 & 18
Calling all literary lovers!
The McKinney Public Library is hosting the inaugural McKinney Literary Fest on August 17 and 18! This is a new event designed to connect local authors with literature lovers from throughout our North Texas community. A special thanks to Visit McKinney and the McKinney Public Library Foundation for making this inaugural event possible!
Saturday, August 17: Discovering Local Authors
The first day of the McKinney Literary Fest is designed to let local literary lovers meet local authors! Book enthusiasts are invited to drop in to hear local author readings and peruse local books. Keynote Speaker Dave Lieber is a must-see!
10:00-10:30 a.m.
Meet & Greet with Local Authors
10:30 a.m.
Opening Keynote Speaker: Dave Lieber
Kick off the event with an inspiring keynote address from Dave Lieber, a local investigative columnist from the Dallas Morning News.
11:30 a.m.
Author Readings - Fiction & Storytelling
12:30-2:00 p.m.
Downtown McKinney Lunch Break
2-3 p.m.
Author Readings - Poetry & Creative Writing
3-4 p.m.
Author Readings - Non-Fiction & Memoirs
4-5 p.m.
Author Mixer & Meetup at The Comedy Arena
Sunday, August 18: Becoming a Local Author
The second day of the McKinney Literary Fest is designed for authors, writers, and anyone interested in the book industry. Multiple panel discussions are planned with various experts and authors, followed by hands-on workshops to help grow your skills, knowledge, and confidence as a writer.
10-11 a.m.
Panel Discussion: Publishing & the Book Industry
Navigate the complex world of publishing with our industry experts. Topics include traditional and self-publishing, marketing strategies, and the evolving landscape of book publishing. Gain practical advice on getting your work published and reaching your audience effectively.
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Workshop: The Art & Business of Freelance Writing
Susan Mardele will share her experience in the freelance writing industry. Learn practical tips on how to find clients, manage projects, and navigate the challenges of a freelance career. Get tips on how to pitch your work, negotiate contracts, and maintain a steady workflow.
12-1:30 p.m.
Downtown McKinney Lunch Break
2-3 p.m.
Panel Discussion: Creative Writing
Join our panel of experienced authors as they share insights into the creative process, discuss how they develop ideas, craft compelling narratives, and overcome writer's block. This session promises valuable tips and inspiration for writers at all stages.
3-4 p.m.
Mastering Fiction & Memoir Writing through Character Development & Plotting
Unlock the secrets to compelling storytelling in both fiction and memoir writing with this hands-on workshop led by an experienced author with over a dozen years of published work in women's fiction. This session will delve into the two most critical elements of writing: character development and plotting. Whether you're crafting a novel or recounting personal experiences, this workshop will provide you with practical tools and techniques to enhance your writing.
4-5 p.m.
Closing Session: The Future of Storytelling in Texas
Explore the trends in storytelling that are shaping the future of literature in Texas. This panel session will examine the impact of cultural and technological changes on the literary landscape and offer insights into how these forces are transforming the way stories are told and shared. Authors will share their visionary perspectives and personal experiences, so don't miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation driving literary evolution in Texas.
Thank you to our event sponsors!
Visionary Sponsors:
Ambassador Sponsors:
Visit McKinney
The Comedy Arena
Camp Bow-Wow McKinney
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream
In-Kind Sponsor:
By attending this event, you consent your voice, name, and/or likeness being used, without compensation, in promotional materials whether known or hereafter devised, and you release the City of McKinney assignees and licensees from any liability whatsoever of any nature. Please do not attend this event if you do not wish to be subject to the foregoing.