FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 11/20/2011
Morgan Arts Council -- Berkeley Springs, WV
www.macicehouse.org

Press Contact only: Jeanne Mozier- 304-258-4248 - star@starwv.com

Local Authors are Focus of First Berkeley Springs Book Festival

BERKELEY SPRINGS, WV ----The Morgan Arts Council (MAC) hosts its inaugural holiday Book Festival this Saturday, November 26 at the Ice House arts center from 10am to 4pm.  The free event has books for sale from more than 25 area authors hailing from three states in the region plus a roster of readings and short workshops about writing.

“We’re thrilled with the number and variety of area authors who have books on offer,” said Jeanne Mozier, one of the event’s organizers.  “Among the more than 50 titles are those on everything from mysteries to travel books, plenty of history books and even guides to parenting and past lives.”

Readings from local authors and workshops on different aspects of writing and publishing are designed to reach out to everyone.   Abe Lincoln expert Ed Steers kicks off a full schedule of talks, presenting insights about the fascinating America president drawn from his extensive research and several volumes.  Steers also talks about his recent notoriety connected to newscaster Bill O’Reilly’s book on Lincoln.

Other main events include novelist John Douglas talking about ghost stories and murder mysteries, as well as Betty Lou Harmison and Jeanne Mozier sharing slides from their new historic photo book of Berkeley Springs. Award-winning humor columnist Tim Rowlands talks about his craft during the festival sessions. Poet and event organizer Kate Shunney discusses poetry chapbooks.  Emerging writers have an hour open mic session at the end of the day to read from their work.

“This festival is a great way for us to put local writers in the spotlight, and support their contribution to the literary arts,” said Shunney. “It’s also the best kind of buy-local holiday shopping event, where you can pick out a perfect gift for someone who loves books and supports area writers.”

Complimentary tea and coffee are available at the festival. The Ice House is located on Independence and Mercer Streets in the heart of downtown Berkeley Springs.  For more information call 304-258-2300.  Check online at www.macicehouse.org for a full list of authors and titles.

Reading/Workshop Schedule
10:30 -- Abraham Lincoln scholar Ed Steers
11:00 -- Writer John Douglas talks about murder mysteries and ghost stories
11:30 -- Troubadour legend Jim McCoy, on his recent biography
11:45 -- Jeanne Mozier and Betty Lou Harmison on their photo history book
1:00 – Humor columnist Tim Rowlands
1:30—Bob O’Connor on self-publishing
2:00—Leigh Horne and Ryland Swain on Writer’s Groups
2:30—Poet Kate Shunney
3:00—Open Mic hour for new and emerging writers