ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Annapolis Book Festival continued its 23-year tradition when it welcomed curious bookworms on May 2 at the Key School. Among the festivities included outdoor field games and food trucks lined up and down the local street, but the true highlight of the Book Festival was the collection of accomplished authors who attended to spread the word about a very important hobby: reading.
Reading often takes a backseat to video games, television and even social media in the modern world, especially for youth. While children still consume required reading throughout their years in the classroom, the portion of the youth population that reads for fun has dwindled significantly, according to the Pew Research Center.
With a declining population of readers identified, book fairs and festivals are more important than ever. Not only do these events present a chance to expose children to new books, but they also encourage youth to engage directly with authors and other workers in the literary world.
The Annapolis Book Festival had dozens of stands, all operated by real authors or adult attendees. Among the booths were children’s books, sci-fi stories, horror novels and even educational card games. There was truly a one-of-a-kind book for every type of reader; child and adult alike.
One of the booths that caught our attention displayed a variety of fun card games by Alpha Earl Apps & Games. The unique games included hits like “I Declare Words!” and “Math Witz!”, and the vendor was even explaining the rules of each experience to interested attendees.
The authors were also getting hands-on with wonder-filled onlookers. Writers offered a free signing with each purchase of a book, and many authors helped explain the premise of their literary works to crowds of curious readers.
The BayNet had the opportunity to speak with the co-editors of “Scary Stuff,” two authors present at the Annapolis Book Festival. They offered greater insight into how book fairs can reshape how children feel about reading:
“Festivals like this are really important, especially for getting books in front of kids. I think it (book festivals) makes the books and those stories a little bit more real for kids and a little more present. They’re inundated all day with AI and TV and video games. When you have festivals like this, it’s something they can engage with. They’re talking to somebody who did that.”
The chance to engage one-on-one with real writers and authors is an invaluable opportunity, especially for children who may have a passion for reading or writing.
The Annapolis Book Festival was a great chance to expose children to the wonders of reading, and it may have even inspired a child or two to write their first story at home.
Click here to find out about more upcoming festivals in Maryland.
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