Humanities Montana Festival of the Book (2013) took place in Missoula October 10-12. Although the event has been held for a number of years, this was the first time that Christian authors were invited to be fully involved. Not only were we able to host a double-table booth with books for sale, we had an author panel at the main venue and another at the local Christian bookstore, Garden of Read’n, as well as readings and talks.
This was the first time I’ve participated in such a large event with over 80 authors and thousands of visitors. Here are some of the highlights.
On Thursday, we had a mini writers’ retreat for the attending Christian authors and other area writers. This was a great time as historian Jim Peterson taught on research. We also had brainstorming sessions and simply got to know one another, which enhanced the experience of working together throughout the festival. Here’s the group at the retreat.
The next morning the festival got into full swing. Here’s our booth being manned by Jim and Tracie Peterson.
Angela Breidenbach moderated a panel called The Mind & Soul of Christian Fiction, with (seated left to right) Miralee Ferrell, Tracie Peterson, Janalyn Voigt, me, and Janet Chester Bly. 50-60 people turned out to watch, listen, ask questions, and laugh. I have to say this panel was the highlight of the festival for me. We all had a blast!
We also had the opportunity to give talks and readings at The Garden of Read’n. Such fun seeing a display of my books and a cool sign out front!
What’s your favorite event you’ve attended, either as a reader or author?
What an awesome experience and an awesome report of the festival.
Thank you, Valerie!
~Angie
Valerie! This is great! You are a pro!
It was so fun to spend three solid days talking about writing and books! I enjoyed renewing our acquaintance and hope to rub shoulders again with you in the future. Your mice added so much to the book slam!
Mine did not jump out of bed. They still don’t…except Hanna has little choice! Rosalie has been an early riser since birth.
It was awesome getting to know you so much better, too! As for the mice…ahem.