Inaugural Bainbridge Book Festival set for October 4-5, Featuring Renowned Authors and a Launch Party that includes NY Times Bestseller Nicola Yoon

The Island Wanderer | Posted on September 27, 2024 |

Poster Designed by local artist Anna Pollock

The inaugural Bainbridge Book Festival will be held October 4-5 at the Stan Pocock Rowing Center 281 Brien Drive SE, behind the Senior Community Center. The festival, sponsored by Eagle Harbor Book Co. promises to be a vibrant celebration of literature and community, and Pollock’s whimsical design perfectly captures the spirit of the event.

The Bainbridge Book Festival – The Bainbridge Book Festival | Eagle Harbor Book Co. (eagleharborbooks.com) – was inspired by renowned book festivals nationwide, including those in Portland, Chicago, and Savannah. It will feature readings and panel discussions by well-known authors from the Pacific Northwest and across the United States. The festival aims to bring together readers, writers, and book lovers for the love of books and the scenic beauty of Bainbridge Island.

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Highlights of the Bainbridge Book Festival include:

Renowned Authors: A diverse lineup of well-known authors discussing their latest books and sharing their insights and experiences on Festival Saturday.
Engaging Discussions: Readings and panel discussions on various literary topics, with time for Q&A with audience members.
Poetry Readings: A special poetry program presented by the Bainbridge Island Poet Laureate program, held in the art galleries at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art.
Book & Merchandise Sales: A festival tent where attendees can purchase books and official festival merchandise, including Anna Pollock’s poster.
Launch Party: A ticketed event featuring bestselling author Nicola Yoon on Friday evening. The ticket price, which includes dinner, drinks, and a copy of Nicola Yoon’s latest book, “One of Our Kind” (Penguin Random House 2024), will help support Festival Saturday.

Nicola Yoon is a prominent figure in the literary world. Her work is celebrated for its diverse characters and inclusive storytelling. She emphasized the importance of reflecting the real world in her books, which resonates with readers worldwide. Her ability to weave complex social issues into engaging narratives has earned her a dedicated following. The compelling plots and well-developed characters make her books hard to put down.

Yoon’s debut novel, Everything, Everything, and her second book, The Sun is Also a Star, both became NY Times bestsellers. Everything, Everything even debuted at number one. Each of these novels were adapted into successful films, further increasing her visibility and impact.

Yoon’s much-anticipated entry into adult literary fiction is a propulsive, daring satire of race and privilege set in an all-Black gated community. A gripping thriller with wry, razor-sharp social commentary, One of Our Kind explores the ways in which freedom is complicated by the presumptions we make about ourselves and each other. The novel explores complex themes such as freedom, societal expectations, and the hidden costs of utopian ideals. It provides insightful social commentary on what it means to be truly free in America. It is also very good read!

The appeal of Nicola Yoon’s books extends beyond age, as her ability to craft engaging and thought-provoking narratives resonates with readers of all ages and backgrounds.

Yoon will be in conversation with Chasity Malatesta, an African-American educator, facilitator, and equity advocate based on Bainbridge Island. With over two decades of experience, she has honed her skills in leadership, teamwork, and multicultural advising. Chasity is dedicated to addressing and dismantling inequities within the education system and broader community.

Currently, Chasity co-chairs the Multicultural Advisory Council for the Bainbridge Island School District and is a member of the Executive Board and inaugural DEI Committee at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. She is passionate about empowering individuals to challenge oppression, mitigate harm, and advance social justice in their communities. If you’ve not seen Chasity lead a conversation with passion and wit, you are in for a treat, say Festival organizers.

Tickets for the Launch Party are $50 for adults and $35 for students and include refreshments and a copy of One of Our Kind. Tickets can be purchased HERE. Proceeds will support the Saturday festival, ensuring it remains free and accessible to all.

Join us for an amazing discussion surrounding Yoon’s versatility as a writer and her ability to tackle different genres and themes, while creating incredibly engaging stories.

Festival Saturday: A full day of author readings and panels, free and open to all.
Youth Literacy Support: The Bainbridge Book Festival will donate a portion of merchandise and book sales to support youth literacy programs.

Nancy Goll, founder and co-president of the festival, expressed her excitement about the poster, saying, “Anna’s design is a wonderful reflection of the creativity and literary spirit we aim to celebrate with this festival. We’re thrilled to share this beautiful piece of art with our community.”

About the Poster Artist: Anna Pollock’s journey from Bainbridge Island to Kentucky, where she now resides, has been filled with creativity and passion. Her work as an artist for bands and musicians showcases her versatility and talent, and she remains deeply connected to her roots on Bainbridge Island. You can explore more of her work on her website: Anna Pollock Art.

Event Details: