Arkansas Literary Festival!

It may not be BEA -- but it's the next best thing!

For months I struggled with the idea of trying to get myself to New York for Book Expo of America -- but the reality was I couldn't coordinate ANY of our schedules -- mine, husband's, children -- or finances that would allow my attendance.

Fortunately, I live in a community that supports the arts and it's artists, and for the 7th year, Little Rock will be hosting the Arkansas Literary Festival -- a premier gathering of hundreds of authors and readers.

Although events started yesterday -- I won't be able to attend any of the sessions until tomorrow.

Here is my scheduled list of events -- yes, I know you are jealous!!

YOUR FIRST TIME

Time: Sat., April 9, 10:00 a.m.


Location: Room 124, Arkansas Studies Institute

In 2010 the Festival offered two first-time novelists and both happened to be male. This year we have evened the score by introducing you to Eleanor Brown and Kyran Pittman. The twosome will discuss Brown's much adored debut, The Weird Sisters, and Pittman's honest and absorbing Planting Dandelions: Field Notes from a Semi-Domesticated Life.

I gushed earlier this year about Kyran's memoir -- I'm eager to read Eleanor's book as well, as I've read wonderful reviews about it.

COOKING WITH VIKINGS



Time: Sat., April 9, 11:30 a.m.


Location: 18th Floor Party Room, 300 Third Tower


Don't expect horns or Eric the Red. Elizabeth Heiskell, lead culinary instructor at the Viking School, is paired with her friend, Lee Richardson, executive chef at the Capital Hotel, whose professional kitchen uses Viking products. Get ready for some tantalizing Southern dishes that are both simple and spectacular.

Chef Lee is a neighbor -- his food is to DIE for!!

OK -- hold on to your ebooks -- look what is next (!!):

THE PIONEER WOMAN LOVES A COWBOY

Time: Sat., April 9, 1:00 p.m.


Location: Darragh Center, Main Library


Ree Drummond, the well-known blogger whose new memoir Black Heels To Tractor Wheels has been optioned for film, will light up the Festival with her down-home charm, passion, and warmth. Her blog, www.thepioneerwoman.com receives two million hits a month.




Ahhhh!!!  I'm hoping this small time Oklahoma girl has the opportunity to meet another small time Oklahoma girl -- I know she would like me!
 
Finally, my last session on Saturday:
 
BAKED



Time: Sat., April 9, 2:30 p.m.


Location: 18th Floor Party Room, 300 Third Tower


Yummy! Indulge in some sticky and scrumptious new desserts from the cheeky and imaginative Brooklyn bakers Matt Lewis and Renato Poliafito. The duo will whip up sinfully delicious treats from their second cookbook, Baked Explorations: Classic American Desserts Reinvented.

There are dozens of other sessions, panels, and workshops to partake of -- unfortunately, I can't attend them all.

 

If you are in the area, and want to imbibe on all things literary -- head down to the River Market area of Little Rock -- that is where all the "in" people will be this weekend.

 

Check out the FULL schedule of events at the Arkansas Literary Festival website.