Memoir and Narrative Storytelling During COVID
The Society of Midland Authors presents a panel discussion titled “Memoir and Narrative Storytelling During COVID” with writers Michele Weldon, Gerry Plecki, and Rebecca Johns Trissler. The event takes place Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 6 p.m., and is held at Chicago’s Sulzer Regional Library (4455 N. Lincoln Avenue). The event is free.
The Society of Midland Authors was founded in 1915 to create "a closer association among the writers of the Middle West" and "the stimulation of creative literary effort." For more information on the event, visit the SMA’s website
Edward Hirsch to Appear at Secret World Books, March 19
Chicago-born poet Edward Hirsch will read from, discuss, and sign his latest book, My Childhood in Pieces (Knopf), Thursday, March 19, 7 pm, at Secret World Books (1774 2nd Street, Highland Park, IL). Hirsch is a MacArthur Fellow who has published 10 books of poetry and his latest, a memoir of a Chicago area childhood. More information at the site.
Vicksburg, Michigan Pulp and Press Lit Arts Fest Launches Spring 2026
Up north, the village of Vicksburg, Michigan will host the Pulp and Press Lit Arts Fest, April 24–25. The two-day event promotes literacy through showcasing writing, illustration, bookbinding, poetry, and spoken word. Guests include more than 30 regional authors and Tacoma, Washington author Shelby Van Pelt. Van Pelt will speak at the Vicksburg Performing Art Center, 7 p.m., April 24.
The festival is free, though some events are ticketed. For more information visit their Facebook page.
"Declarations: 250 Years of Writing Toward independence" at the AWM
Chicago’s American Writers Museum announces their new pop-up exhibit, Declarations: 250 Years of Writing Toward independence, in honor of America’s semiquincentennial this year. The exhibit will be on display from June 18 through September 7, and will explore the ideals highlighted by the United States’ Declaration of Independence. Exhibits include an 1823 print of the Declaration, as well as correspondence and other documents from historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr., Harvey Milk, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and others. Visit the museum site for more information.
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