McKinney is holding its first literary festival

McKinney is turning a new page in its literary scene with the launch of a festival dedicated to spotlighting the voices of local and up-and-coming authors.

The Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library is holding its first literary festival.

“We have a collection of local authors at the library that is very popular, and we decided we wanted to do an event that celebrated the people who contributed these books to our collection,” said programs manager Gary Landeck.

During the two-day event, book lovers will have the opportunity to meet and engage with more than 60 local authors on the first day. Writers of various genres will also have the opportunity to read excerpts from their books.

“The main thing is that we want to offer an event that is unique in terms of author and book festivals here in North Texas, especially with the other components of it besides selling books,” Landeck said. “We also want authors to have an opportunity to reach out. You know, they can connect with people who are new audiences.”

Readings begin with Travis Davis, author of One of Four: World War I through the Eyes of an Unknown Soldier. It will conclude with Sheila Williamson reading an excerpt from Two calls that make faith flourish: Keeping hope alive.

The event will also include panels, workshops, and authors Dave Lieber, investigative columnist from The Dallas Morning News, and Pulitzer Prize finalist George Getschow will give speeches.

Workshops will cover the art and business of freelance writing, memoir writing, character and plot development, and other literary topics. Panel discussions include publishing, creative writing, and the future of storytelling in Texas.

“The workshops and events going on are geared toward local authors, not just the general public,” said Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library branch manager Ed Veal.

of McKinney Literary Fest it is free and open to the public. It will take place on August 17-18 at 10:00 a.m. at 101 E. Hunt St. in Mckinney.

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