The festival kicks off on Saturday, November 2, with Mickey Bergman, a former IDF paratrooper and seasoned diplomat, sharing gripping stories from his book In the Shadows. Bergman offers a behind-the-scenes look at high-stakes negotiations involving Americans held abroad, including Brittney Griner and Otto Warmbier.
Thursday, November 7, marks a special Women’s Night, featuring romance luminary Julia Quinn, the bestselling author behind the Bridgerton series, who will reveal the inspiration behind her beloved characters. Moderated by Ellen Futterman, this evening promises a celebration of love, culture, and storytelling that resonates across generations.
Celebrated cookbook author Joan Nathan joins us on November 16 for an evening of culinary storytelling as she shares insights from her new memoir My Life in Recipes. Through cherished recipes, Nathan reflects on her rich family history, cultural heritage, and the joys of cooking. Attendees will savor nostalgic flavors and heartwarming anecdotes, exploring how food connects us to our past and each other.
The festival wraps up with a must-see event on Sunday, November 17, with a special event at the newly renovated St. Louis County Library Clark Family Branch, featuring Daniel Handler, the mastermind behind the Lemony Snicket series. Handler’s new memoir And Then? And Then? What Else? shares insights into his creative process and literary journey, blending humor with deep reflection. This session offers a rare chance to peek inside the mind of one of today’s most intriguing authors, making it a can’t-miss for fans and aspiring writers.
Throughout the festival, you’ll find an array of panels and discussions spanning various genres, from humor in literature to powerful memoirs that confront personal and historical traumas. Each event is designed to engage, inspire, and celebrate the art of storytelling in all its forms.
Early Bird All-Access Passes go on sale TODAY, August 18! You can secure your spot now for this unforgettable literary experience. Don’t miss your chance to connect with authors, discover new stories, and immerse yourself in the joy of reading and writing.