Building Stories that Resonate

What makes a book feel like it was written just for you? These authors will talk about how they bring their personal perspectives into their writing to create characters and stories that feel real, honest, and unforgettable. From tapping into their own experiences to exploring voices that don’t always get heard, these authors show how the most powerful stories often come from a place of truth—and how that truth helps readers feel seen, understood, and inspired.

Time: 1oam

Location: Children’s Programming Space

Love, Drama, and Bad Decisions

Description:

Stories for young readers often thrive on the messy intersections of love, conflict, and the impulsive choices that define coming of age. Whether it’s first crushes, fractured friendships, or the high stakes of navigating family and identity, the tension between desire and consequence fuels compelling narratives that resonate beyond adolescence. Let’s get candid about passion, mistakes, and the stories that illuminate the human experience through the lens of youth.

Time: 12pm

Location: Children’s Programming Space

Cultivating Compassion with Compelling Characters

In a time when understanding feels more essential than ever, storytelling reminds us of our shared humanity. This panel explores how fiction fosters empathy—inviting readers to step into unfamiliar lives, question assumptions, and discover compassion through the power of story.

Time: 1pm

Location: Clematis Room

Signing Party

Time: 3pm

Location: Auditorium