The annual Texas Book Festival attracted hundreds of authors and thousands of readers to Austin this weekend. The festival, held on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1,  took over the State Capital and the surrounding streets with books and fun-filled entertainment.

 

The two-day event, which unfolded within pleasant afternoon hours, featured an abundance of prominent figures in the literary sphere. Attendees wandered the State Capital lawns to take part in a weekend of readings, discussions, book signings and other festivities. The Texas Book Festival was founded in 1995 by former First Lady Laura Bush in hopes of promoting the joys of reading.  Since its humble beginnings, this event has evolved into one of the premier literary events in the country.  Over 200 authors from across the United States congregate to the Lone Star state to promote their newest works and indulge themselves in literary culture. This year’s schedule included its share of noteworthy names. Margaret Atwood, author of “The Year of the Flood,” enlightened a packed Paramount Theater audience on the inspirations for her latest work. Jonathan Safran Foer, author of “Everything is Illuminated” and “Eating Animals,” addressed a crowded House Chamber on the importance food etiquette. Artist Dan Winter talked about sources of inspiration for his collection of celebrity portraits displayed in the Austin Museum of Art.  There was simply too much to do in too little time. Over 130 events unfolded within the two-day span, and attendees freely chose which affairs to include in their schedule and which to omit.   Rows of large white tents lined the capital grounds in which literature fanatics wandered in and out, purchasing books left and right.  Even the pickiest reader could find something of interest. A wide arrange of books lined the shelves of numerous cooking, lifestyle and children’s tents. There was even a live music tent which provided attendees with pleasant background melodies. The Texas Book Festival is a celebration of literature in all forms. This event honored authors for their contribution to the culture of literacy while encouraging the public to take an interest in the pleasures of reading. For more information and details on the rundown of the Texas Book Festival, visit the official website at www.texasbookfestival.org.