A post from the Author Enablers
With more than 25 years of experience, Kathi Kamen Goldmark and Sam Barry have the inside scoop on writing and publishing. Together, they are the authors of Write That Book Already!: The Tough Love You Need to Get Published Now. Email them your questions (along with your name and hometown) about writing and publishing, and don’t miss their column on BookPage.com.
There has been a general sense of gloom in the publishing community for several years now. Many authors, publishing professionals, booksellers, and readers fear that the reading and writing of literature are in danger of extinction. There is reason for concern—closing bookstores, library budgets being slashed, a lack of appreciation for the liberal arts, and lower pay for authors and writers all around.
But at the same time, there is great reason for optimism. We’re going to focus on one in particular: Litquake. This remarkable annual book festival consists of readings, discussions, and themed events held at a variety of San Francisco bay area venues (bars, the Opera House, even in bookstores). The 2011 Litquake will feature 850 authors, including Thomas McGuane, Guillermo Gómez-Peña, Julia Glass, Jane Smiley, James Ellroy, Adam Mansbach, selected readings from pro-wrestler’s memoirs (really), and much more.
The truth is, American literature ain’t dead; in fact it’s thriving. Let’s support it by attending events like Litquake, buying books, and making sure our kids learn to appreciate good writing.
