Second annual LitFest draws local authors, book lovers

Donna Cherveny photobombs as Bryan Sorohan takes a photo with Captain America and The Flash during LitFest at the Brenau University Downtown Center. (AJ Reynolds/Brenau University)

On Saturday, Sept. 22, Brenau University’s second annual LitFest drew local authors and book lovers to the Brenau Downtown Center.

Lainey Kennedy, Brenau assistant director of multimedia and theater services, said the event included open mic poetry, workshops, panels and hands on demonstrations for everyone attending. Children’s activities and readings were held to incorporate the younger audience as well. People dressed like literary characters and superheroes to engage with children.

LitFest was created to connect readers with authors in their community. The event was free and open to the public. Attendees experienced storytelling through songwriting and engaged with published authors by sharing their own personal experiences.

LitFest presenters included some of Brenau’s very own like Alison Reeger Cook, who focuses on writing fantasy, and Barbara Steinhaus, who has articles based on her doctoral thesis focusing on the Black Spiritual Art of Song.

“I am excited for next year’s event and the ability to possibly expand it to other universities,” Cook said. “LitFest is perfect for Brenau with its focus on humanities.”