West Hollywood Book Fair...Ray Bradbury to headline! September 28th...

Famed novelist Ray Bradbury, headlines the 7th Annual Book Fair, September 28th, in West Hollywood.

Bradbury - known for his Sci-Fi musings - has written more than five hundred short stories, novels, plays, screenplays, television scripts and verse.

The celebrated author is best-known for his 1953 classic novel Fahrenheit 451.

The Martian Chronicles is another favorite of his fans.

Critics consider the visionary writer's work timeless, with widespread appeal to both young and old audiences, alike.

Other writers slated to discuss their works include: Robert Wagner (the Pieces of My Heart); Len Wein (Watchman); poet Eloise Klein Healy (Passing; Maryum “May May” Ali); Eve Diamond (mystery series); Denise Hamilton; Ed Begley, Jr.,(activist); and - last but not least - Nina Revoy (The Age of Dreaming).

The Fair, hosted by the City of West Hollywood and the LA Weekly, will feature 12 stages of on-going entertainment.


During the all-day happening, there will be a raft of panel discussions, book signings, storytelling performances, and writing workshops.

And, there is diverse program that that appeals across the board, to all ages and a wide-range of interests.


For instance, there will be teen poetry readings; seniors participation; LGBT panels and exhibitors; a Target Kids’ Stage; Media City Ballet’s debut performance of "The Four Musicians"; crafts for children; Russian-speaking author readings; a panel of comics; live comic book art demonstrations; a manga fashion show; a People,Places & Politics stage; and environmental panels.

The West Hollywood Book Fair is one of Southern California’s largest, most eclectic literary events, which attracts more than 25,000 readers and writers of all ages and interests.

In addition, book sellers and non-profit literary organizations will sponsor exhibits with a keen eye to an ever-growing readership in the rapidly-expanding West Hollywood community.

The West Hollywood Book Fair is gratis.

Free parking is also available at the Pacific Design Center. Free shuttle service.

LA TIMES Festival of Books...cerebral event for bookish!

If you didn't make it down to the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival this weekend - then you have the option to take in a more cerebral event - the annual Festival of Books hosted by the LA TIMES at UCLA in Westwood.

Although the Festival is free, unless you park a few blocks away and are inclined to trek a bit on foot, parking will cost a staggering eight bucks. At the cost of gas today, maybe it would be wise to take the Metro or hitch a ride with a pal.

The Book fair has grown considerably over the years.

Amid the six outdoor stages of events to choose from, there will be music, cultural events, and cooking demonstrations.

A highlight will be a number of insightful panel discussions with celebrity hosts, readings by award-winning giants in the literary field, and book signings.

Some of the highlights include the following panel discussions:

Laughing in the Face of Death", with moderator Donna Rifkind (Panel 1011); The Literary Detective, with Sarah Weinman (Panel 1012); Death in Another Land, with Paula L. Woods (Panel 1013); Literature & Technology: Breaking the Mold, with David Kipen & Shelley Jackson (Panel 1021); Young Adult: Fantastic Fiction, with Jonathan Hunt (Panel 1022); Gay Talese with Tim Rutten(Panel 1032).

With 300 exhibitors on hand, you'd be wise to plan on spending the whole day. So, pack a lunch; or, trundle off to one of the trendy local eateries in Westwood when the old gut starts growling for grub.

For those without babysitters, two children's areas are sure to keep the young ones in tow enthralled with the world of make-believe, too.

Among the 450 or so authors to appear for in-depth discussions about their works, expect to mingle with keynote speakers like - Julie Andrews, Maria Shriver, Gore Vidal, Kenny Mayne, and Ray Bradbury - to name a few.

In fact, if you want to get a jump on the festivities, you may be inclined to take in tonight's event - the "Dinner with Authors" package.

The "28th Annual Los Angeles Times Book Prizes" Award Ceremony is being held at Royce Hall at UCLA in Westwood.

Attending authors include the "Master of Ceremonies" - Gay Talese - in addition to Maxine Hong Kingston, Tim Weiner, and Sherman Alexie.

The cost of admission ($65.00 a head) includes dinner, a prime ticket for the Awards Ceremony, and a parking pass.

To attend the award ceremony only will run 'ya about 18 smackeroos.

Nifty idea, eh?

Tickets for the event are limited - so hurry.

Info: latimesbookprizes.com