Citizen Staff Writer
RYN GARGULINSKI
rynski@tucsoncitizen.com
Readers, writers and even folks who haven’t picked up a book in years are invited to a two-day gala affair at the University of Arizona campus this weekend.
The first Tucson Festival of Books is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free.
More than 350 local authors will be on hand, signing, discussing and presenting their work. Topics range from true crime to westerns, horror to romance, teen books to children’s storytelling and activities. Screenplays and TV writing are also in the mix.
“There is going to be something for everybody,” says Bill Viner, CEO of Pepper Viner Homes, and a founding member of the Tucson Festival of Books.
“People might think this is like an old time book fair – it’s not,” he adds. “It’s a very unique thing coming to the community. People can really enjoy something that’s different, educational and fun. They don’t have to be intellectuals or avid readers.”
Some of the notable headliners at the event include Stedman Graham, speaking on the importance of education; America’s Poet Laureate Billy Collins and southern Arizona’s own best-selling author J.A. Jance.
Editor’s note: Tucson Citizen staffer, artist and poet Ryn Gargulinski will be reading her poetry at 4 p.m. March 14 on the main stage of the UA BookStore (next to Starbucks).
350-plus local authors expected at book fest
IF YOU GO
What: Tucson Festival of Books
When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
Where: Various locations at the University of Arizona
Price: Admission is free
Info: www.tucsonfestivalofbooks.org