By Alissa Foley
The fifth annual Read It Write It Book and Writing Festival gathered people of all ages on Saturday, June 20 at the Mall at Wellington Green. The fifth-annual festival was organized by author Heidi Hess and celebrated the art of storytelling, creativity, and the community of book lovers and writers from near and far.
“I wanted to create a grassroots literary event that celebrated the written word and helped to bring readers and writers together of all ages, backgrounds and writing abilities,” Hess explained. “I’d like everyone to feel a sense of community. For readers, I’d like them to find their new favorite author. For writers, I’d like them to find new readers but also feel inspired to create more great books.”
Hess hopes to see the event expand in the future. “My vision is to grow the festival into a large multi-day, multi-genre, annual event in Palm Beach County that is accessible to everyone,” she said. “We are at our best when we are learning new things and connecting with each other.”
More than 60 tables of authors and writing organizations filled the mall’s Grand Court and the area near the District at Wellington Green. Guests made their way to each table for the opportunity to meet authors who shared the inspiration and message behind their craft. Authors sold signed copies of their books, promoted their work and posed for photos. While conversing, guests and aspiring writers received first-hand insight into each author’s writing process.
As guests strolled through the festival, they were met with a diverse range of literary genres. They got to experience their favorite genre of books while also exploring different ones. As guests interacted with authors and skimmed through the books on the table, many found a newfound appreciation for literature.
“There are so many authors out here and writing so many different genres, nonfiction and fiction. Authors love to talk with the readers,” author Nancy Nau Sullivan said. “That’s really why we come. We want to hear what the readers are interested in reading, and it helps our writing, too.”
There were also discussion panels and workshops, where authors took the stage to share their journeys and expertise in writing for their respective genres. The topics discussed included thriller, fiction, fantasy, memoir and autobiography, sports, children’s books, romance, mystery, sci-fi, Christian-based fiction and nonfiction, poetry and horror writing.
Guests also learned about the publishing process and how authors create diverse characters. During the discussions, members of the audience got the chance to ask questions and engage with the speakers.
“I want people to be inspired, strengthened, enthused and encouraged,” faith-based author Denise Harris said. “Writing is my healing process. When I can’t talk about how I’m feeling, I’ll write. I love writing. It gives me joy. It gives me peace.”
Authors also shared that the inspiration behind their books comes from their own personal experiences, especially from challenges they faced. Many expressed that writing is therapeutic, helping them cope during difficult times.
“I want people to smile. I just do. I love to smile. I want other people to smile. There’s so much bad in the world. It’s better to sit down, read a good book and smile,” romance author Sheila Fowler said.
The Read It Write It Book and Writing Festival showcased the creativity and impact of literature as a source of inspiration, education and personal expression. It brought the community together and encouraged guests of all ages and backgrounds to read and write. Authors were able to build relationships with their readers and gained further inspiration for their craft.
The festival was sponsored by Latina Literary Lawyer, Roz Stevens, Evangeline Rentz, the Speak-Easy Podcast with Sheila Fowler and Denise Marsh, Arlene Smith of Absolute Best Insurance, TK Lawyer and Nancy Nau Sullivan. Learn more about the festival at www.heidicreates.net/events.
