What’s Happening in the Austin Book World, September 4-11

By Jessica Weems

Hi all! Hope everyone had a fantastic summer. We are back in the swing of things and looking forward to the slow, but ever so lovely start to the Texas fall. And great news! The first few weeks of September are looking very bright for the all-things-literary junkies out there. Our favorite places are hosting events this month that are sure to please. Don’t miss out!

The Events

On Thursday, September 4 at 7PM, Book People will host pediatric surgeon and author Catherine Musemeche for a speaking and signing over her book, Small: Life and Death on the Front Lines of Pediatric Surgery. A combination of both personal experience and surgical history, Small gives insight into the tense precision and perseverance that pediatric surgery requires. Those interested in the medical and literary field alike should make sure not to miss this emotional and informative event.

On Friday, September 5 at 7PM, Malvern Books presents An Evening with Eric Shonkwiler and Ray Shea. Eric Shonkwiler is the author of the critically acclaimed novel, Above All Men and is the Regional Editor for Los Angeles Review of Books. Local, Ray Shea has been published in The Rumpus, Hobart, apt, Sundog Lit, Fourteen Hills, etc. He was also a finalist for the Phoebe 2014 Annual Creative Nonfiction award for his essay “Forensic Biography and the Art of the Screenwriter.” Come out and get the chance to speak to some published writers!

On Saturday, September 6 at 9AM, Margo Rabb will be at St. Edward’s University for her workshop, “Mapping Your Novel.” Margo will discuss tips and methods to organize your novel. She will also cover correct structure, theme, and key plots. Margo will teach you how to successfully finish your book, without going crazy in the process. Writers- this is the event for you!

On Sunday, September 7 at 4PMNew York Times bestselling author and screenwriter Gregg Hurwitz will be at Book People for a speaking and signing over his newest novel, Don’t Look BackHurwitz is a two-time finalist for ITW’S Best Novel Prize and a finalist for the CWA’S Steel Dagger for his previous novels, The Crime Writer and The Survivor. His latest book features single mom, Eve, on a dream vacation to Mexico that turns deadly once she happens upon a dangerous figure in the jungle. It’s sure to be a thrill!

On Tuesday, September 9 at 7PM, Malvern Books begins its new monthly Raw Paw Reading Series. Here is the link to check it out!

On Thursday, September 11 at 12:30PM, Texas State Senator and democratic candidate for governor, Wendy Davis will be at Book People to sign her book, Forgetting To Be Afraid: A MemoirTickets for the event are required and can be purchased in-store or online. Come on by!

 What’s Happening at The Writing Barn

Don’t forget to sign up for our newest six-week class, Style and Substance: Break into the Magazine Business! Laura Jenkins will be here to give attendees the strategies necessary to make a name for themselves in the magazine world. The class will begin Wednesday, September 24 so hurry and register now!

On Tuesday, October 14, we are proud to present the Short Story and Literary Fiction event with NBA finalist Rene Steinke for her workshop What Katherine Anne Porter’s Work Can Do for You. Don’t wait to sign up!

Get a new perspective with Advanced Writer Weekend Workshop, Writing Outside the Box with author/agent Ammi-Joan Paquette and author K.A. Holt. Starts Thursday, October 9! Top-selling agent and author Ammi-Joan Paquette and author K.A. Holt will conduct this hands-on workshop to give attendees a different outlook on their writing and leave them with some new-found inspiration!