The first annual North Georgia Regional Book Fair is Sept. 14 at the University of North Georgia Convocation Center on the Dahlonega campus from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fair is hosted by the Dahlonega Literary Festival, the UNG Department of English and the UNG Press.
The fair will feature 50 published authors from around the region, offering a wide range of genres and themes, such as war stories, fantasy fiction, Christian literature and children’s stories. These authors will be selling their books and interacting with participants.
UNG English Professor Laura Getty, who serves as the main connection between these three co-sponsoring organizations, said, “We had three times as many people apply as we had seats—at least 150 requests for 50 tables. And we chose who we were going to have.”
Alongside these authors, the fair will host a variety of workshops, presentations and panels throughout the day largely focused on writing, research and publishing options.
“… [For] anyone who wants to learn how to write a book, how to publish, we actually have sessions on how to get published by a press, how to get self-published, so anyone who is interested… This is a really good time to talk to people who have… been through the trenches, who understand the process.” Laura Getty, English professor
Guests will have the opportunity to view and buy original art created by UNG Art Department students in various mediums.
There will be door prizes and a silent auction of books, gift baskets and gift certificates from local businesses.
Another feature includes viewing a near-exact replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, an embroidered depiction of a conflict in October 1066 between the English and Norman-French armies called the Battle of Hastings. Throughout the day, volunteer students will provide tours of the 224-foot-long tapestry where they will describe the historical significance of the artwork. At 1:30 p.m., English Professor Brian Corrigan will host a presentation on the history of the tapestry and the story it depicts.
The book fair offers free entry and parking. Guests wanting to make purchases can expect vendors to offer card reader payments and/or Venmo. The concession stand will offer breakfast, lunch and snacks. Find the complete list of authors and a detailed schedule for activities here.
