The BookFest Adventure
Featuring Keynotes, Panel Discussions, Conversations and Segments for the Reading and Writing Communities
Day 1 – For Readers
Saturday, October 26th, 2024
Day one of The BookFest Fall 2024 is devoted to readers. If you’re a booklover, then get ready for a bookish good time.
In addition to a full day of panels and conversations, there are special segments, the Big Bundle of Books Grand Prize Giveaway, and the Live Author Chats hosted by Beth Worsdell.
Sit back, curl up with your furry pal, or text your friends so you can hang out and enjoy the presentation. Don’t forget to join the chatroom on YouTube to network with your new book-buddies. There are often lively conversations happening there. Either watch on The BookFest Home Page or go to the Books That Make You YouTube Channel.
All times listed in Pacific Time. Programming is subject to change.
9:30am PT
Welcome Message from The BookFest Founder Desireé Duffy
We’ll start The BookFest Fall 2024 with a welcome message from its founder Desireé Duffy.
9:35am PT
Opening Keynote – Dr. Raye Mitchell: Greenlight Your Genius
Now is the time to own the freedom to unleash your greatness, tell your story, and embrace your multifaceted talents. This keynote focuses on capturing the power of your unique journey, highlighting the resilience and creativity that have carried you through life’s ups and downs. It’s an empowering message for storytellers, creators, and innovators ready to greenlight their genius and fully capture the power of celebrating their brilliant path forward in the story-teller world.
Dr. Raye Mitchell, graduate of Harvard Law School, USC MBA, and UCLA School of Theater, Film & Television Professional Program on Producing; award-winning story-maker, actor, director, producer, TV & film screenwriter, and author
9:45am PT
A Salute to Lisa Diane Kastner – Winner of the Honorary Achievement BookFest Award
Lisa Diane Kastner receives the Honorary Achievement BookFest Award for her significant contributions to the literary world. As the founder of Running Wild, LLC, Lisa has helped discover and promote groundbreaking talent, including authors like Jamie Ford, Reuben “Tihi” Hayslett, and Tori Eldridge. Featured in “Forbes,” she’s been named to several “Best of” lists and is celebrated for her belief that storytelling can change the world. A noted author and editor, Lisa has over twenty years of experience in writing, editing, and technology leadership.
Honoree: Lisa Diane Kastner, founder of Running Wild, LLC, and author of “Cure,” “Family Pack,” and editor of “INCURABLE: Stories from the World of CURE Anthology”
Presenter: Christopher Madden, author, educator, editor, and founding partner of Woodhall Press
10:00am PT
A Conversation with S.A. Cosby and Jennifer Anne Gordon
According to Margo Jefferson, “Noir is a court of human relations, and some crimes are beyond legal restitution.” Prepare for a deep dive into S.A. Cosby’s acclaimed books, characterized by their gritty nature and compelling characters. Explore the craft of storytelling, the power of suspense, and the darkly human themes twisted into the fabric of his writing. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from two dynamic voices in contemporary fiction as they explore the intersection of genre, emotion, and the human experience.
S.A. Cosby, three-time Anthony Award winning author and New York Times Bestselling author of “Blacktop Wasteland, Razorblade Tears,” and “All The Sinners Bleed”
Moderator: Jennifer Anne Gordon, award-winning author of “Beautiful, Frightening, and Silent” and “Pretty/Ugly”, co-host of the Vox Vomitus Podcast, as well as “House of Mystery” on NBC Radio
10:45am PT
Showing Up is a Contact Sport
Ever feel like you’re just showing up, going through the motions each day? You’re not alone—80% of people feel the same way. That’s why showing up can feel like a contact sport. How we all choose to show up is an essential part of how we connect with our society, navigate situations, and engage with ourselves and others. Whether you’re parenting, leading a team, or running a global company, how you show up matters. It’s a dynamic, interactive process that influences everything we do. Join us in exploring how showing up can transform the way you lead and live.
Marcy Axelrod, award-winning author of “On Your Game!”, a strategy and innovation consultant with over 25 years of experience dedicated to helping individuals and companies thrive
11:00am PT
A Conversation with Slumberkins creators Kelly Oriard and Callie Christensen, and Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble
Slumberkins has captivated families with its heartwarming stories and tools for emotional wellness, and now, co-founders Kelly Oriard and Callie Christensen introduce their first book for adults. In this insightful conversation, Kelly and Callie share how their new parenting book, “All Feelings Welcome,” guides parents on fostering emotional health in children while also encouraging personal growth. Discover practical tips for navigating the emotional ups and downs of parenting and how storytelling can be a powerful tool for connection and healing. Whether you’re a parent or simply passionate about emotional wellness, this conversation promises valuable takeaways for fostering resilience and support in your family.
Kelly Oriard, co-founder and Chief Therapeutic Officer at Slumberkins, licensed family therapist and school counselor, author of character storylines at Slumberkins, dedicated to enhancing children’s emotional health
Callie Christensen, co-founder and Chief Brand Officer at Slumberkins, with a master’s in elementary and special education, leading the brand’s expansion into children’s entertainment with The Jim Henson Company for Apple TV+
Moderator: Dr. Alfiee Breland-Noble, pioneering psychologist and founder of The AAKOMA Project, mental health expert, and public speaker, recently named a Melinda French Gates 2024 World Leader, dedicated to reducing disparities in diverse communities
11:45am PT
Travel Book Authors Panel: Oh the Places You Will Go
Ready to wander beyond the pages? Join this panel of travel writers as they share their most unforgettable journeys, offer practical tips for crafting a life filled with courage and discovery and the empowerment discovered when living a life of adventure. Whether you’re an armchair traveler or a globetrotter, or perhaps you’ve always dreamed of being a travel writer, this discussion will spark your wanderlust.
Linda Ballou, author of “Lost Angel in Paradise,” “Get Great Trips for Free,” and the most recent “Lost Angel Unleashed-Stories from the Heart,” she hosts a podcast and contributes to numerous magazines
Lisa Niver, award-winning travel expert who has explored 102 countries on six continents – her memoir, “Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty” has inspired millions
Jen Ruiz, award-winning lawyer turned travel writer, author of “12 Trips in 12 Months,” 3-time TEDx speaker, and featured travel expert by “The Washington Post,” “Huffington Post,” ABC News, and more
Moderator: KJ Matthews, award-winning media and entertainment journalist, regular contributor to BBC News and DW News, and former contributor to Extra News and CNN for over a decade
12:30pm PT
A Conversation with Kelley Armstrong: Ripping Through History
Historical fiction doesn’t have to be dry and dull, and Kelley Armstrong proves it with her latest series, “A Rip Through Time,” set in the gritty streets of Victorian Edinburgh. Blending mystery, time travel, and historical intrigue, Armstrong offers a fresh take on the genre that’s as thrilling as it is immersive. Join her as she shares her passion for the Victorian era and discusses how she brings history to life in a way that’s anything but boring.
Kelley Armstrong, #1 NYT bestselling author of over 50 novels in mystery, fantasy and horror. Her latest is the time-travel Victorian mystery series, “A Rip Through Time”
Moderator: Aimee Ravichandran, award-winning CEO of Abundantly Social, and named Top 10 Women Changing the Face of Business
1:15pm PT
Historical Fiction Panel: The Good Old Days? Historical Fiction that Might Open Our Eyes
What we often think of as the “good old days” can hide darker truths. In this panel, authors explore pivotal periods in American history: the rise of rock and roll in the 1950s, the turbulence of the Vietnam War’s end, and the harsh realities of the Jim Crow-era South. Each story peels back the layers of nostalgia to reveal conflict, turmoil, and the profound struggles that shaped these times. If you’re ready to challenge the rosy view of the past, this panel will offer new perspectives on America’s most mythologized eras.
Grinnell “Buzz” Desjarlais, debut Native American novelist of historical fiction book “Saving KC,” business owner, and recovering alcoholic
Rebecca Hendricks, award-winning author of YA historical fiction series “Hound Dogged,” which includes number one bestsellers “Hound Dogged” and “Hard Dogs Night”
Stacia Moffett, writes of growing up in Tennessee in the 1950s, retired from a career in invertebrate neurobiology, and lives in a wild canyon in Washington State
Moderator: Desireé Duffy, founder of Black Château, the Webby Award-winning Books That Make You brand, and The BookFest
2:00pm PT
A Conversation with Annie Korzen: From Seinfeld to TikTok Sensation
Iconic “Seinfeld” actor and octogenarian TikTok star Annie Korzen sits down with Deborah Vankin from the “Los Angeles Times” to discuss her new book, “The Book of Annie: Humor, Heart and Chutzpah from an Accidental Influencer.” Get ready for a candid and uplifting conversation filled with humor and heart as Annie shares her take on life, motherhood, thrifting, and even her controversial theory about Shakespeare not being Jewish. With her trademark wit and wisdom, Annie proves that reinvention and influence can come at any age.
Annie Korzen, TikTok star with 400K+ followers, best known as Doris Klompus on “Seinfeld,” writer of humorous essays in “The New York Times,” “LA Times,” and an NPR Moth Mainstage storyteller
Moderator: Deborah Vankin, award-winning features writer for the “Los Angeles Times” covering California’s culture of wellness, with work appearing in “The New York Times,” “LA Weekly,” and “Variety”
2:45pm PT
Embracing What Makes You You: Turning Your Personality into a Superpower
Too often, we overlook the value of our unique traits in the pursuit of unattainable perfection. We judge ourselves for the very qualities that make us different, forgetting that these traits shape who we are. By learning to laugh at our quirks, we can gain perspective, reduce self-criticism, and ultimately transform those traits into our greatest strengths. What if, instead of chasing perfection, we celebrated our true selves? Join us for this insightful talk and discover how embracing your individuality can become your greatest asset.
Lucia Matuonto, entrepreneur, award-winning author of Out of The Box, A New World,” podcaster, and Editor-in-Chief of “The Relatable Voice” magazine
3:00pm PT to 5pm PT
Live Author Chats and Readings
Join us for our lively afterparty and networking event where we invite authors to take the stage and do whatever they want for 10 minutes. Hosted by Beth Worsdell.
Readings, Q&A’s, and more with your favorite authors. Don’t forget to join us to hear the winners of our The BookFest® Big Bundle of Books Giveaway and The BookFest® Children’s Book Giveaway during this event.
Host: John Palisano, award-winning author and developmental editor who has been featured in the “Los Angeles Times” and “Vanity Fair Magazine”
Co-Host: J. Gordon Curtis, Freelance journalist and podcast producer with bylines in “The Daily Beast” and “Filter Magazine”. Producer for The Book Fest® Live Author Chat
3:10pm PT
Margaret Grundstein, author of “Naked in the Woods: My Unexpected Years in a Hippie Commune,” will share an excerpt from her new, intimate memoir, “Bargains”
3:20pm PT
Cher Terais, two-time #1 bestselling Black romance author and world traveler, demonstrates decorating an author table, discuss multicultural love stories, preview “Tempest in Tulum,” and answer questions about Black love
3:30pm PT
CC Robinson, reads from “Divided,” her YA dystopian novel, which combines the world-building of “The Last of Us” and relentless action of “The Hunger Games” in a segregated future America
3:40pm PT
Russell Little, practicing attorney and author of “Murder By Storm” and “Murder For Me,” will describe living through a hurricane and consider how it could hamper criminal investigations
3:50pm PT
Maria Alexander, a two-time Bram Stoker Award-winning author, will talk about how spiritualism sparked American feminism in the 19th century and answer questions about writing horror
4:00pm PT
Gina Cavalier, an author, artist, and filmmaker, will share her journey of overcoming suicidal ideation and deciding to teach helpful techniques to the world and demonstrate a brief grounding exercise
4:10pm PT
Bjorn Leesson, author of the “Outside the Thalsparr” series, talks about his joy of building characters (lots of them) and shattering the rule of restricting stories to seven
4:20pm PT
Reggie D. Ford, best-selling author and motivational speaker, will reveal the process of perseverance from “Perseverance Through Severe Dysfunction (PTSD)” and share a heartfelt poem that encapsulates his life philosophies
4:30pm PT
D.C. Gomez, award-winning author and podcaster, will share tips for crafting an action-packed adventure within a supernatural setting along with her journey and any audience questions
4:40pm PT
Steven Joseph, award-winning author of “Snoodles in Space,” will read an excerpt from his latest book “Snoodles in Space, Episode 2: The Zoodles Strike Back!”
5:00pm PT
Winners of The BookFest Big Bundle of Books Giveaway and The BookFest Children’s Book Giveaway Announced.
Day 2 – For Writers
Sunday, October 27th, 2024
Day two of The BookFest is devoted to writers. If you’re part of the writing community, a professional in the literary world, a student, or just starting out on your writing journey, this day is dedicated to you.
An array of professionals and fellow authors contribute to day two with panel discussions, conversations and segments covering the realms of inspiration, collaboration, and narrative craft as a writer, uncovering the art of historical storytelling, navigating potential scams, and expanding your authorial horizons and more.
Pull up a cozy chair, brew a cup of tea and enjoy the presentation. Please join the chats on YouTube to network with your new book-buddies, too. There are often exciting conversations happening there. Either watch on The BookFest Home Page or go to the Books That Make You YouTube Channel.
All times listed in Pacific Time. Programming is subject to change. Sign up to be a BookFester and get email alerts, BookFest news, and to receive a complimentary Virtual Gift Bag at the end of The BookFest delivered to your inbox.
9:30am PT
Welcome Message from The BookFest Founder Desireé Duffy
We’ll start the second day of The BookFest Spring 2024 with a welcome message from its founder Desireé Duffy.
9:35am PT
Keynote – Scott Ryan: A Cheer Squad of One
While the cast of “Into the Woods” sings “No One Is Alone,” and Harry Nilsson reminds us that “One is the loneliest number,” author and publisher Scott Ryan shares his thoughts on writing for an audience of one: yourself. As social media increasingly influences our lives—and even the way books are sold—Ryan emphasizes the importance of staying true to your voice as a writer, rather than chasing likes and star ratings. He encourages new authors to resist the pull of algorithms and focus on creating original, meaningful work that moves and inspires us as human beings. Let the world cheer or jeer, but make sure you’re your own biggest supporter.
Scott Ryan, TV historian, co-president of Fayetteville Mafia Press and Tucker DS Press, author of “Moonlighting: An Oral History” and “The Last Decade of Cinema”
9:45am PT
Why Writing Conferences Are Crucial for Writers of All Levels with David Katz
No matter where you are on your writing journey, attending writing conferences can be a transformative experience. Have you ever wondered how these events can elevate your career? This segment offers practical advice on how to make the most of them, whether your goal is to write a bestselling novel, break into screenwriting, or simply hone your craft. Don’t miss this opportunity to take a step closer to achieving your writing dreams.
David Katz, director of the Kauai Writers Conference which brings together authors, poets, agents, and literary aficionados in one of the most picturesque settings in the world
Moderator: Dave Duffy, head of operations for Black Château, the Webby Award-winning Books That Make You brand, and The BookFest
10:00am PT
A Conversation with Mark Coker and Jim Azevedo – Authors Are the New Power Center in Publishing
For decades, the world’s largest traditional publishers controlled the industry. They decided who got published, when, and where the books would be distributed. The advent of ebooks, e-reading devices and digital publishing and distribution platforms like Smashwords marked a sea change event that forever democratized the industry. Smashwords founder Mark Coker and marketing director Jim Azevedo discuss the rise of indie publishing, what it’s been like to join forces with Draft2Digital, and why the power center in the industry is shifting away from the largest traditional publishers and into the hands of authors.
Jim Azevedo, head of corporate communications at Draft2Digital and former marketing director at Smashwords
Mark Coker, Smashwords founder, Draft2Digital Chief Strategy Officer
Moderator: Desireé Duffy, founder of Black Château, the Webby Award-winning Books That Make You brand, and The BookFest
10:45am PT
Decoding the Enneagram for Your Characters
Discover how the Enneagram can unlock new dimensions of character development with Lucas Strunc, host of the LocalScriptMan YouTube Channel. In this segment, you’ll learn to use the Enneagram to understand character motivations, offering fresh insights for creating conflict and adding depth to your storytelling. Whether you’re working on a novel, screenplay, or any narrative form, this powerful tool can enhance your characters and elevate your stories. Plus, get practical tips on how to start using the Enneagram in your own writing.
Lucas Strunc, an expert in character development, writing coach, and host of the LocalScriptMan YouTube Channel
11:15am PT
Panel Discussion: From Manuscript to Agent Querying, Presented by the Writers and Publishers Network
You’ve just typed “The End”—now what? Learn the essential steps to turn your manuscript into a polished, publish-ready book. First, discover the different types of editing and why each one is crucial. Then, if you’re seeking an agent, master the art of crafting a compelling query letter. Next, build your Author Platform, including a website, social media presence, and email lists to engage and attract future readers. This panel will guide you through these key steps and explain why they are critical for a successful book launch and beyond.
Naomi Kim Eagleson, editor and author, founded Artful Editor in 2010, helping writers refine manuscripts. She has an MFA from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop and is working on a novel about consciousness and time
Leslie Lehr, award-winning author of “A Boob’s Life,” optioned by HBOMax, private book coach specializing in story structure and query letters, with essays in “Time,” “Newsweek,” and “Writers Digest”
Adanna Moriarty, literary publicist, marketing chair for the Writers & Publishers Network, co-host of the “Talking Book Publishing” podcast, and author of “Threadbare: A Patchwork of Poems That Make a Life”
Moderator: Kathleen Kaiser, former music journalist, publicist, president of the Writers & Publishers Network, producer of the 805 Writers Conference, co-host of “Talking Book Publishing,” and author of five books
12:00pm PT
Crafting a Successful Synopsis
If you’re seeking an agent or publisher, a strong synopsis is essential. It outlines what your book is about, how it stands out, and how it compares to others in the genre. There are specific criteria for what belongs in a synopsis, and while breaking the rules is possible, it should be done with care—and flair. A well-crafted synopsis also gives agents and publishers insight into your writing style, your approach to storytelling, and what readers can expect.
donalee Moulton, award-winning freelance journalist and author of “Hung Out to Die,” “The Thong Principle,” and “Conflagration!” which won the 2024 Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense (Historical Fiction)
12:30pm PT
Panel Discussion: Brave New World Building
Creating immersive worlds is key to bringing your stories and characters to life. Join a diverse panel of skilled authors as they share their expertise on how to craft vivid settings that engage readers and enhance your storytelling. Learn essential tools, tips, and techniques for building believable worlds, whether you’re writing fantasy, science fiction, historical fiction, or any genre in between. Discover how to make your settings feel real, and explore the role of world-building in character development, conflict, and plot. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting out, this discussion will offer invaluable insights into the art of world-building.
Tricia Copeland, award-winning author of “Kingdom of Embers,” “To Be Fae Queen,” “Lovelock Ones,” plus seventeen other titles, and “Azreya, Aztec Priestess,” and host of “Finding the Magic Book” podcast
Sebastien de Castell, award-winning fantasy author of “Traitor’s Blade,” “Spellslinger,” and sixteen other novels, with work translated into over a dozen languages
Hollis Jo McCollum, award-winning author of the “Raashan” series and “The Lost Beacon Chronicles,” creates epic dark and historical fantasy, and hosts a podcast on writing and storytelling
Amy Wolf, author of 15 novels including “The Misses Brontës’ Establishment,” and three fantasy series, a former Hollywood studio executive with 20th Century Fox and Warner Brothers
Moderator: Beth Freely, award-winning author and copywriter, and BookFest Bellwether, with novels including “Beyond the Steps of Stone,” “The Loch,” and “The Legend of Captain St. Pierre”
1:15pm PT
Memoir Made Easy
Are you ready to turn your life experiences into a compelling memoir? This insightful and practical seminar guides you through the essential steps of crafting your memoir with ease and confidence. You’ll Learn about the many types of memoir, how to organize your work, and when and how to add dialogue. Think you don’t need research to write your own story? We’ll talk about that, too. Karen Hodges Miller not only has written her own memoir, “Hibiscus Strong,” but has also helped countless authors write and publish their own memoirs.
Karen Hodges Miller, founder of Open Door Publications, a company that helps authors navigate the world of self-publishing
1:45pm PT
A Conversation with Brandon McNulty: Changing the Story: Original Vision vs. Finished Product
Ever wondered how a story evolves from the initial idea to the final draft? Join us for a fascinating discussion on how the writing process shapes—and reshapes—a story from its original vision to the finished product. Explore the creative risks authors take, the balance between genre requirements and audience expectations, and how the story’s core may change along the way.
Brandon McNulty, author of “Bad Parts,” “Entry Wounds,” and “The Half Murders,” gives weekly writing advice on his popular YouTube channel, Writer Brandon McNulty
Shell Steiner, freelance content editor for Skeleton Key Publishing and indie authors, Ohio public library paraprofessional reader’s advisory specialist and facilitator of “Strange New Worlds” online speculative fiction book club
2:30pm PT
What Can a Professional Book Reviewer Tell You?
Book reviews can make or break a title, but what exactly do professional reviewers look for? What do authors need to know about securing professional book reviews? Gain a deeper understanding of the various types of reviews, how they fit into your book marketing strategy, and discover how reviews can impact your book’s success.
Jode Susan Millman, is the multi-award-winning mystery author of the true-crime inspired “The Queen City Crimes” Series, an IP attorney, reviewer for Booktrib.com, and creator of The Writer’s Law School
Moderator: Desireé Duffy, founder of Black Château, the Webby Award-winning Books That Make You brand, and The BookFest
3:00pm PT
Panel Discussion: What Authors Need to Know in an Ever-Changing Market
The publishing world is constantly evolving, and today’s savvy author must stay up to date with the latest trends, technology, and industry buzz. In this panel, gain valuable insights into the shifting landscape of book publishing and promotion. Learn about writing to market, discover the hottest genres, and find out what literary agents, publishers, and readers are craving right now. From navigating the complexities of book marketing to understanding digital platforms, this discussion will help you stay ahead of the curve. Discover how to leverage new opportunities, promote your work more effectively, and ensure your strategy aligns with the latest industry trends.
Desireé Duffy, founder of Black Château, the Webby Award-winning Books That Make You brand, and The BookFest
Beth Freely, award-winning author, copywriter, and BookFest Bellwether, her novels include, “Beyond the Steps of Stone”, “The Loch”, and “The Legend of Captain St. Pierre”
Dr. Dominic McLoughlin, author of “Be a Better Manager in 5 minutes a Day” and creator of the Business Leaders Lab: “The ‘Good Bits’ Guide for Passionate Professionals”
Mickey Mikkelson, CEO and publicist with Creative Edge Publicity and an expert at promoting authors and books
Aimee Ravichandran, award-winning CEO of Abundantly Social, and named Top 10 Women Changing the Face of Business
Moderator: Tina Hogan Grant, award-winning author of the “Tammy Mellow Trilogy,” “The Sabela Series,” and “The Secrets Series,” founder and host of “The Cuppa and a Natter Podcast – Interviews with Authors”
3:45pm PT
A Salute to The BookFest Award Winners Fall 2024 — Full Video
A video montage spotlighting many winners of The BookFest Awards Fall 2024 played in its entirety. Congratulations to the winners—we look forward to seeing many of you up in lights in Times Square. Visit the Awards Page to see the full list of winners and honorable mentions.
4:30pm PT
Watch Your Inbox for Your Virtual Gift Bag, Plus Winners of the Writers Giveaway Announced
A video montage spotlighting many winners of The BookFest Awards Fall 2024 played in its entirety. Congratulations to the winners—we look forward to seeing many of you up in lights in Times Square. Visit the Awards Page to see the full list of winners and honorable mentions.
Produced by Black Château
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