Would Love to See You at the North Georgia Regional Book Fair: 9/13

Are you feeling the change in the air? A cool breath in the early morning after months of summer doldrums. Like the French who typically take a hiatus in August, I took a break from writing to recharge. There’s something to sitting still and just being.

Now it’s time to pick up the pace! On Saturday, September 13 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.), I’ll join 100 authors for the North Georgia Regional Book Fair at the University of North Georgia Convocation Center. It’s a free event at a gorgeous venue (180 Alumni Drive, Dahlonega, Georgia 30597) with spacious parking and refreshments.

There’s something for everyone who adores books—readers and authors. Please join me for this session: “Poetry: Rhythm, Resonance, Relevance,” also featuring Ezekiel Black, Elizabeth Michaud, and Barbara Serafino (room 119 at 1 p.m.). We’ll explore why poetry matters today—more than ever. Whether you are a longtime poetry lover or a new fan, join us for reading, conversation, and connection.

Here’s a link to breakout sessions throughout the day. They’re a trove of info if you’re an emerging or established author:

• “Children’s Reading Hour”
• “Trad vs. Indie Publishing: The Highlights”
• “Techniques for Writing Historical Fiction and Nonfiction Novels”
• “Wait, you mean I have to promote my book?”
• “How to Co-Write Without Killing Each Other (So Far)”
• ​“Worlds and Relationships in Fantasy Fiction”
• “The Different Faces of Christian Fiction”
• “Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Writing a Children’s Book, But Were Afraid to Ask”
• “Top 10 Things to Do to Be a Successful Writer”
• “Writing Techniques for Any Genre”
• “Finding an Agent”
• “Character not Caricature: Tips for Developing Authentic, Three-Dimensional Fictional Characters”
• “Race, Faith, and the South”
• “In the Shadow of Gold: Fiction Rooted in North Georgia History”

As an added treat, you can take in the Bayeux Tapestry Replica, which will be on display in the upper level of the convocation center. This magnificent 224-foot tapestry is an exact reproduction of the original French tapestry depicting the Battle of Hastings in October 1066 and the only one of its kind in the world.

So, welcome to autumn and renewed energy to celebrate reading, writing, and books. If you live in the Atlanta area, please drop by the Decatur Book Festival (October 3 and 4). I’m thrilled to join authors at this beloved literary event. More on that next week!

A veteran of Time Inc. and Dotdash Meredith, Catherine Hamrick is the author of The Tears of Things: Poems (Madville Publishing). Her poetry has appeared in Appalachian Places, Appalachian Review, The Blue Mountain Review, The Citron Review, Pine Mountain Sand & Gravel, storySouth, and elsewhere.

If you have a friend who might enjoy these stories, freely given, please share. Many thanks for reading!