Local authors to gather at Wenatchee's first October BookFest

WENATCHEE — Over 20 local and regional authors are set to gather for a book fair in Wenatchee as part of a new event aimed at connecting writers and readers in the Pacific Northwest.

The inaugural October BookFest, hosted by the nonprofit organization Write on the River, will take place on Saturday, October 5, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the LocalTel Event Center in Pybus Public Market. The event is free and open to the public.

Attendees will have the opportunity to browse, purchase, and have books signed by participating authors. The fair will showcase a range of genres, including children's literature, Christian personal growth, thrillers, memoirs, young adult fiction, poetry, and romance.

Melissa Campbell, Write on the River board president, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, "I am so excited Write on the River is able to provide this opportunity for PNW writers and readers to meet and get to know each other. Wenatchee has such a vibrant writing community, this new event is sure to be a favorite every year."

Founded in 2005 by author Kay Kenyon and a group of local writers, Write on the River aims to support writers throughout their creative process. The organization sees the BookFest as a step toward bringing more literary gatherings to the regional writing and reading community.

Petra Hernandez, a Write on the River board member, commented on the event's role in showcasing local talent. "Washington state is filled with so much writing talent, and Central Washington is no exception," Hernandez said. "It's amazing to highlight the creativity and entrepreneurship of our local and regional authors. It's even more fun when we can bring in local readers to participate."

The organizers hint at future events in development, encouraging interested parties to stay informed about upcoming activities.

For more information about the October BookFest or Write on the River, interested individuals can contact the organization at info@writeontheriver.org.