BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 X-WR-CALNAME:tahoelitfest26 X-WR-CALDESC:Event Calendar METHOD:PUBLISH CALSCALE:GREGORIAN PRODID:-//Sched.com Tahoe Literary Festival//EN X-WR-TIMEZONE:UTC BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T000000Z DTEND:20261010T004500Z SUMMARY:Tahoe Literary Festival Kickoff Celebration: Free DESCRIPTION:Tahoe Literary Festival Kickoff Celebration\nJoin us as we open the Tahoe Literary Festival with an inspiring evening that celebrates the power of words and community. The festival kickoff features a welcome\, readings from acclaimed and local poets\, and featured readings by participating authors. The evening concludes with a community open mic\, inviting writers\, poets\, and storytellers of all experience levels to share their voices. Whether you're a longtime literary enthusiast or attending for the first time\, this festive gathering sets the tone for a weekend of creativity\, conversation\, and connection.\n\n CATEGORIES:FREE COMMUNITY EVENT LOCATION:Boatworks Mall\, 760 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:43bf13fd48b0b536f920bf44062fc4b6 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/43bf13fd48b0b536f920bf44062fc4b6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T003000Z DTEND:20261010T023000Z SUMMARY:Open Mic Sign-Ups & Open Mic Night: Free DESCRIPTION:Join the celebration of Open Mic Night for an inspiring and energetic evening of spoken word\, poems\, and narratives from established authors\, new authors and first-time readers alike. Sign-ups start at 5:30pm with first readings at 6pm.\n\nThis event is FREE to attend and open to all ages. No-cost registration highly recommended. \; CATEGORIES: LOCATION:Boatworks Mall\, 760 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:433d46f0aeabde91f4a94aa2cd7e95d2 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/433d46f0aeabde91f4a94aa2cd7e95d2 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T170000Z DTEND:20261010T180000Z SUMMARY:Plot and Subplot: The Hidden Architecture of Story DESCRIPTION:Many manuscripts suffer from a surprising problem: they have a plot\, but no effective subplots. Yet the most memorable novels use secondary storylines not as decoration\, but as engines that deepen character\, heighten conflict\, and generate crucial turning points.\n\nIn this craft talk\, novelist Jessica Levine explores how plot and subplot interact to create narrative momentum. Drawing on examples from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald\, she shows how seemingly secondary stories—such as Lydia Bennet's elopement or Myrtle Wilson's affair—ultimately reshape the destinies of the protagonists and drive the main narrative toward its crisis and resolution.\n\nWriters and readers alike will gain a deeper understanding of narrative structure and leave with practical tools for recognizing\, developing\, and strengthening the subplot dynamics that give fiction both emotional resonance and structural power. CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Museum Library\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:9d4bd9c89e664060bc6b45b87647c672 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/9d4bd9c89e664060bc6b45b87647c672 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T170000Z DTEND:20261010T180000Z SUMMARY:Beyond the Book: Building an Audience in the Modern Literary Landscape DESCRIPTION:This panel explores how independently published\, hybrid\, and small press authors can build visibility and grow readership in a rapidly changing literary landscape. Traditional media and bookstore events still build credibility—but they no longer drive book discovery the way they once did. Today's readers are finding books through Substack\, podcasts\, BookTok\, Instagram\, Reddit\, online communities\, and creator recommendations.\n\nJoin us for a candid conversation about balancing traditional publicity with modern audience-building tools\, including newsletters\, social media\, podcasts\, paid advertising\, and direct reader engagement. Learn what works\, what doesn't\, and how to build a solid ecosystem around your book in order to reach readers\, generate book sales\, and sustain a writing career. CATEGORIES:FICTION LOCATION:Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema\, 475 N Lake Blvd SEQUENCE:0 UID:ee97ff9f173649f626392b52a9698d1f URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/ee97ff9f173649f626392b52a9698d1f END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T170000Z DTEND:20261010T180000Z SUMMARY:Beyond the Book: Turn Your Big Idea Into a TEDx Talk That Opens Doors DESCRIPTION:This presentation will help writers discover the powerful idea at the heart of their work and transform it into a compelling TEDx-worthy talk. Whether they write memoir\, fiction\, or nonfiction\, they'll learn how to identify the universal message behind their writing and understand the difference between telling a story and sharing an "idea worth spreading."\n\nThe purpose of this session is to help authors expand their impact beyond the page while building a stronger author platform through speaking. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for developing a TEDx-worthy idea\, a clearer understanding of how speaking can create opportunities for visibility and connection\, and a roadmap for using talks to attract new audiences\, podcasts\, literary festivals\, conferences\, and future speaking engagements. CATEGORIES:GENERATIVE WORKSHOP LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Museum Upstairs (no elevator)\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:16cd7c9d17377f6aa9b16defcb52286c URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/16cd7c9d17377f6aa9b16defcb52286c END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T170000Z DTEND:20261010T180000Z SUMMARY:Rock Climbing\, Body Language\, and the Poetics of Scale DESCRIPTION:Poet\, essayist and rock climber Brian Laidlaw will read briefly from his new book Erratica: On Climbing\, Language\, and Touching Stone\, and then lead a craft talk on what he calls ‘the poetics of scale.’ Inspired by fractals in nature – the idea of self-similarity across scale\, the way a cliff’s geometry is the same as that of a boulder\, a pebble\, and a grain of sand – Brian will lead a generative workshop (all genres welcome – prose\, poetry\, song\, other) that encourages participants to write through both the micro-lens and macro-lens of attention\, leading to images and insights that echo one another across scale\, from the infinitesimal to the infinite. CATEGORIES:GENERATIVE WORKSHOP LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Basket Room\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145 SEQUENCE:0 UID:fe8d018d995d60a6e4456a797ae32ae6 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/fe8d018d995d60a6e4456a797ae32ae6 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T170000Z DTEND:20261010T180000Z SUMMARY:Turning Your Trips into Tales: The Art of Travel Writing DESCRIPTION:Do you want to tell life stories inspired by your travels? If so\, this generative workshop will help you write compelling stories about your journeys and adventures\, past and future. Please bring a pen and paper\, as this is a hands-on writing workshop CATEGORIES:GENERATIVE WORKSHOP LOCATION:The Understory by Wonderwood Books\, 945 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145\, USA SEQUENCE:0 UID:f513331a9a921a01616a995eacc6fdeb URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/f513331a9a921a01616a995eacc6fdeb END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T170000Z DTEND:20261010T180000Z SUMMARY:The Art of Fiction DESCRIPTION:Join novelists Kim Culbertson (Other People's Kids)\, Karen Nelson (The Last Summer at Feather River)\, and Laura Newman (The Darling of the Black Rock Desert) for a conversation about the craft of fiction. From developing compelling characters and immersive settings to exploring the emotional truths that drive a story\, these authors discuss their creative process\, the inspiration behind their novels\, and the challenges and rewards of bringing fictional worlds to life. Whether you're an avid reader\, aspiring writer\, or simply love a great story\, this panel offers an engaging look inside the novelist's craft.  \; This panel is great for people that love to read. CATEGORIES:IN-CONVERSATION LOCATION:SNOW Sports Museum\, 760 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145\, USA SEQUENCE:0 UID:caffa596590d42e5133a5298a770b860 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/caffa596590d42e5133a5298a770b860 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T170000Z DTEND:20261010T180000Z SUMMARY:Transitions: A Multi-Disciplinary Poetry Workshop DESCRIPTION:Jesse James Ziegler presents a poetry workshop to help build personal artistry and identity. It will incorporate ekphrastic exercises\, blackout poetry opportunities and individual written prompt responses. Materials will be provided for the participants including paper\, writing utensils and clipboards. CATEGORIES:POETRY LOCATION:Tahoe City Library\, 740 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:1fbe1d9df587ef15f6b127cada098d39 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/1fbe1d9df587ef15f6b127cada098d39 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T181500Z DTEND:20261010T191500Z SUMMARY:Humor Writing DESCRIPTION:What makes readers laugh and why is humor often one of the most challenging forms of writing? Join Tim Hauserman and Tim Disney for a conversation on the craft of writing humor\, from finding comedy in everyday life to using satire to expose larger truths. They'll explore how vulnerability\, timing\, voice\, and perspective shape memorable comedic writing\, sharing examples from their own work along the way. Whether you're writing fiction\, memoir\, essays\, or satire\, attendees will gain practical techniques for developing humor that feels authentic\, engaging\, and meaningful. Expect lively discussion\, insightful readings\, and plenty of laughs. CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Museum Upstairs (no elevator)\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:149052facb63361f1c42d7f05196b684 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/149052facb63361f1c42d7f05196b684 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T181500Z DTEND:20261010T191500Z SUMMARY:Reluctant Sales: 3 Marketing Moves for Writers Who'd Rather Be Writing DESCRIPTION:Most writers would rather do anything besides sell their books. No thanks to being pushy or constant rejections. This session reframes the marketing work: selling from a place of curiosity and helpfulness is just connecting a reader to a book they'll love. The presenter will lay out three marketing moves a writer can do directly\, with or without a publisher: getting into reader book clubs\, onto regional bookstore shelves\, as well as in retailers besides bookstores\, such as enthusiasts' stores and museum gift shops. We'll go through the marketing playbook: which directories book clubs use to find their next reads\, the anatomy of a winning sell sheet\, displays that sell for you and the calculation on how print-on-demand copies can out-earn royalties. Attendees leave with a system\, first steps\, and proof from local writers already using these moves. \; CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Tahoe City Library\, 740 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:735531972f1d0e500eca7a116314bffb URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/735531972f1d0e500eca7a116314bffb END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T181500Z DTEND:20261010T191500Z SUMMARY:Scene: The Essential Building Block of Story: Fiction\, Memoir\, Playwriting DESCRIPTION:Whether we’re playwrights or writers of fiction or memoir\, we’re up to the same thing\, which is building a story. And stories\, no matter the form or genre\, unfold scene by scene. In this workshop\, we’ll talk about what we mean by “scene\,” and cover its essential elements. Then\, with the help of published examples\, we’ll examine how a variety of writers put these ideas to work: we’ll look at character\, and character needs\, the importance of setting and activity\, as well as the power inherent in inanimate objects. We’ll also address point of view and sense of place\,  \;and a few pointers about effective dialogue. Targeted prompts allow you to put theory into practice\, so you can confidently incorporate these ideas into your writing. \; CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Museum Library\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:00da6a419c82a5d197a0edcbb4ddf09d URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/00da6a419c82a5d197a0edcbb4ddf09d END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T181500Z DTEND:20261010T191500Z SUMMARY:Building Your Writing Career from Scratch DESCRIPTION:Feel lost in the vast bevy of opportunities available to you? In this hands on workshop\, we will build a plan for you to fulfill your writing goals. \; CATEGORIES:GENERATIVE WORKSHOP LOCATION:The Understory by Wonderwood Books\, 945 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145\, USA SEQUENCE:0 UID:5c8f3292409d8ef643d4365601aa926f URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/5c8f3292409d8ef643d4365601aa926f END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T181500Z DTEND:20261010T191500Z SUMMARY:How to Write Compelling Personal Essays DESCRIPTION:Personal essays are a great way for writers to get their stories\, ideas\, and words out into the world. In this one-hour class\, participants will learn the structures behind successful personal essays\, as well as the different types\, such as memoir\, OpEd\, and reported service pieces. You'll leave understanding which personal essay format best suits your idea and how to craft it. Attending the workshop with an essay idea is recommended but not required. \; CATEGORIES:GENERATIVE WORKSHOP LOCATION:SNOW Sports Museum\, 760 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145\, USA SEQUENCE:0 UID:fd9e0a4f4c15db35095f5e6d3f0b4886 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/fd9e0a4f4c15db35095f5e6d3f0b4886 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T181500Z DTEND:20261010T191500Z SUMMARY:The Living Landscape: California Then\, Now\, and Next DESCRIPTION:Join acclaimed California authors Obi Kaufmann\, author of California Inside Out  \;and Laura Cunningham\, \;A State of Change \; for a thought-provoking conversation about the past\, present\, and future of the Golden State. Drawing on themes from California Inside Out and A State of Change\, the discussion will explore how California's landscapes have been shaped by geology\, ecology\, climate\, and human influence across millennia. Kaufmann's sweeping vision of the state's interconnected watersheds\, biodiversity\, and public lands complements Cunningham's richly illustrated account of California's ecological history and the species and habitats transformed over time. Together\, they will examine what has been lost\, what endures\, and what can still be restored in an era of rapid environmental change. Through storytelling\, science\, art\, and conservation\, this engaging dialogue offers fresh perspectives on California's remarkable natural heritage and the choices that will define its future. Audience Q&A will follow\, inviting participants to join the conversation about stewardship\, resilience\, and hope.\n\nModerated by Mike Rogge\n\n*This author conversation is great for people that love to read non-fiction books and care deeply about the environment.\n \;\n\n CATEGORIES:IN-CONVERSATION LOCATION:Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema\, 475 N Lake Blvd SEQUENCE:0 UID:6e44fbd59d301a20693ed2b5a4033974 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/6e44fbd59d301a20693ed2b5a4033974 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T181500Z DTEND:20261010T191500Z SUMMARY:Writing Trauma: Transforming Pain into Powerful Story DESCRIPTION:How do writers transform life's most difficult experiences into stories that heal\, connect\, and endure? In this conversation\, three authors explore the craft of writing trauma\, From religious trauma to deeply personal experiences of loss\, transformation\, and resilience\, the panel examines how vulnerability becomes meaningful narrative without relying on sensationalism. Attendees will gain insight into balancing emotional truth with strong storytelling\, creating authentic character and memoir arcs\, and writing difficult experiences in ways that serve both the writer and the reader. Whether writing memoir or fiction\, participants will leave with practical strategies for approaching emotionally complex material with courage\, compassion\, and craft. CATEGORIES:PANEL DISCUSSION LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Basket Room\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145 SEQUENCE:0 UID:3516d24d34b8f967b9e480df11124676 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/3516d24d34b8f967b9e480df11124676 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T193000Z DTEND:20261010T203000Z SUMMARY:Confronting the System\, Reclaiming the Self: Fiction as Liberation DESCRIPTION:This panel discussion examines how genre fiction can serve as a catalyst for personal and collective redemption. \;\n\nJoin authors Miles Whitney (Midlife Musical) and Dr. Nicholas Louis Baham III (The People’s Detective) with moderation by Afro-surrealist writer and revolutionary thinker\, CJ Spears for an engaging session demonstrating \;how writers can use external conflicts to map out internal character reawakenings\, Midlife Musical and expose under-reported societal injustices.\n\nAttendees will hear about the Authors narrative techniques for creating the psychology of their characters. Writers will learn how to embed themes of resilience\, and identity directly into readable plots. CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Museum Upstairs (no elevator)\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:205549ee67652d50e6500b65db781e40 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/205549ee67652d50e6500b65db781e40 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T193000Z DTEND:20261010T203000Z SUMMARY:Food Writing: Telling Stories Through Taste DESCRIPTION:Food is never just what's on the plate—it carries memory\, identity\, culture\, and connection. In this interactive workshop\, authors Gabrielle Meyers and Dianne Reeves Angel explore the art of transformin the culi arts into story. Through discussion\, examples\, and writing prompts\, participants will discover how sensory detail\, place\, and personal experience can bring food to life on the page. Whether you're writing memoir\, fiction\, essays\, travel or restaurant stories\, or food journalism\, you'll gain practical techniques and fresh inspiration to create vivid\, engaging narratives that resonate long after the last bite. CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Tahoe Wine Collective\, 760 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:2f6db157ce8a469860f2d8d7a13bf25e URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/2f6db157ce8a469860f2d8d7a13bf25e END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T193000Z DTEND:20261010T203000Z SUMMARY:From Manuscript to Momentum: Social Media Strategies for Authors DESCRIPTION:Publishing a book is only the beginning. Discover how to use social media as a powerful storytelling tool to build your author brand\, connect with readers\, and create lasting engagement without feeling overwhelmed. This interactive workshop explores practical strategies for choosing the right platforms\, creating content that reflects your voice\, growing an authentic community\, and turning online connections into loyal readers. Attendees will also learn how to increase visibility through media opportunities and collaborations that extend beyond social media. Participants will leave with actionable ideas\, a simple content framework\, and the confidence to promote their work consistently while spending less time wondering what to post and more time writing. CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Museum Library\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:67cce0d36a1837a82d13baa8559ba52c URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/67cce0d36a1837a82d13baa8559ba52c END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T193000Z DTEND:20261010T203000Z SUMMARY:The Art of Brevity DESCRIPTION:In flash fiction\, the whole is a part and the part is a whole. The form forces the writer to\nquestion each word\, to reckon with Flaubert’s mot juste\, and move a story by hints and\nimplications. Flash stories are built through gaps as much as the connective tissue of words\,\nso what’s left out of a story is often more important than what’s included. \;\n\nIn this workshop\, Grant Faulkner\, co-founder of 100 Word Story and the author of The Art of\nBrevity—will discuss how a different type of creativity emerges within a hard compositional\nlimit\, exploring the many different forms that short shorts can take. CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Basket Room\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145 SEQUENCE:0 UID:4c643462fea1bfc8f0a612a3a2b0ea2c URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/4c643462fea1bfc8f0a612a3a2b0ea2c END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T193000Z DTEND:20261010T203000Z SUMMARY:What I Learned from Being My Own Book Publicist DESCRIPTION:When Sarah Flocken got a book deal for her debut novel \;Be Well\, it wasn't just a lifelong publishing dream come true. It was the moment her two worlds crashed together. Sarah\, a public relations business owner by day\, had just signed her most significant\, demanding\, critical\, and honestly neurotic client yet: herself. \;\n\nThe imposter syndrome was real. But she ended up creating a PR plan that led to her breaking her publisher’s previous pre-order sales record. \;\n\nIn this workshop\, participants will learn some of Sarah’s hard-earned lessons from experience\, including whether or not to try to be a BookTok influencer\, and what to prioritize based on your genre\, audience\, and personality \;\n\nBy the end\, every participant with a book to promote will leave with a better sense of how to create a publicity plan for themselves\, whether they’re working with a pro or (gulp) doing it on their own. \; CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:The Understory by Wonderwood Books\, 945 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145\, USA SEQUENCE:0 UID:b47565c0531bfd35823205013c2a4bdb URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/b47565c0531bfd35823205013c2a4bdb END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T193000Z DTEND:20261010T203000Z SUMMARY:Author Conversation: Parvati Shallow & Priya Hutner DESCRIPTION:Join Parvati Shallow and Priya Hutner for a unique author conversation as they discuss their memoirs and the experiences that shaped them. Both women were raised in the same spiritual cult\, each forged different paths after leaving. Both navigated abusive relationships\, motherhood\, and the difficult decision to walk away from a life that no longer served them. This intimate conversation explores identity\, belief\, grief\, vulnerability\, and how writing became a tool for making sense of their past. \;\n\n*This author conversation is ideal for readers. CATEGORIES:IN-CONVERSATION LOCATION:Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema\, 475 N Lake Blvd SEQUENCE:0 UID:01859ae8d73936d5cbd2c445a7fd8a57 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/01859ae8d73936d5cbd2c445a7fd8a57 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T204500Z DTEND:20261010T214500Z SUMMARY:Grantwriting for Literary Artists DESCRIPTION:Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your funding strategy\, this hands-on session will walk you through a clear\, practical system for researching\, writing\, and managing grants. Learn how to identify the right opportunities\, align your project with funder priorities\, and craft compelling proposals that stand out.\n\nThis session also explores how to use \;AI tools to evaluate and rate your \;grant \;responses—helping you revise drafts\, strengthen clarity and persuasiveness\, and align your answers with funder criteria.\n\nAttendees will learn practical and actionable recommendations for finding and assessing funding opportunities\, key strategies for persuasive proposal writing\, best practices for budgeting\, documentation\, and reporting and tips for editing\, storytelling and making your case for support. \;\n\n CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Museum Upstairs (no elevator)\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:fbc101fd71929c838130302092ac4621 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/fbc101fd71929c838130302092ac4621 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T204500Z DTEND:20261010T214500Z SUMMARY:How to Build Your Platform by Writing Essays DESCRIPTION:Publishing essays is a terrific way to share your writing with new \;audiences and grow your platform as a writer. It is not easy butunderstanding how the process works will increase your chances of \;getting published. In this workshop\, you’ll learn:Three types of essays to pitch: personal\; reported/hybrid\; OpEd.Three format structures for these essays.The basics of pitching.You’ll leave with an essay idea/pitch title\, a good idea of how towrite the essay or rewrite an essay\, and a few ideas of where to sendyour pitches.\n\n CATEGORIES:GENERATIVE WORKSHOP LOCATION:The Understory by Wonderwood Books\, 945 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145\, USA SEQUENCE:0 UID:e7db25ebf266e62c201d0a8d1adab091 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/e7db25ebf266e62c201d0a8d1adab091 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T204500Z DTEND:20261010T214500Z SUMMARY:Writing Wildness: A Generative Nature Writing Workshop DESCRIPTION:In a world where nature is disappearing\, it's more important now than ever before that we celebrate what's left\, whether we are approaching the natural world with joy and wonder or sadness and nostalgia or maybe a bit of both. Join us for a generative writing workshop on writing the greater than human world. All genres welcome. CATEGORIES:GENERATIVE WORKSHOP LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Basket Room\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145 SEQUENCE:0 UID:c903b497304c3d1e0689aa7102b082df URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/c903b497304c3d1e0689aa7102b082df END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T204500Z DTEND:20261010T214500Z SUMMARY:The American West: Uncovering Hidden Histories and the Enduring Relationship Between People and Place DESCRIPTION:Join acclaimed authors Greg Sarris and Josh Weil for a conversation about history\, identity\, and the enduring relationship between people and place. Sarris discusses The Last Human Bear\, an epic novel inspired by Native Pomo traditions that explores family\, resilience\, love\, and the power of ancestral stories. Weil shares What Came West\, set in the Sierra Nevada on the eve of the Gold Rush\, where ambition\, survival\, and the collision of cultures reshape both the land and those who inhabit it. Together\, they explore how fiction uncovers hidden histories\, gives voice to overlooked perspectives\, and deepens our understanding of the American West. CATEGORIES:IN-CONVERSATION LOCATION:SNOW Sports Museum\, 760 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145\, USA SEQUENCE:0 UID:3e33f652a2bf5df31c0debecb1c3375e URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/3e33f652a2bf5df31c0debecb1c3375e END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T204500Z DTEND:20261010T214500Z SUMMARY:The Power of Poetry: Poet Laureates in Conversation DESCRIPTION:Join California Poet Laureate Lee Herrick and Nevada Poet Laureate Shaun Griffin for an inspiring conversation on the transformative power of poetry. Together\, they explore how poems help us make sense of the world\, deepen our connection to place\, and give voice to our shared humanity. Drawing from their own creative journeys\, Herrick and Griffin discuss craft\, community\, and the role of poetry in cultivating empathy\, resilience\, and belonging. Whether you're a lifelong poetry lover or simply curious about the art form\, this engaging conversation offers fresh insight into why poetry matters now more than ever. CATEGORIES:IN-CONVERSATION LOCATION:Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema\, 475 N Lake Blvd SEQUENCE:0 UID:7d2e54544ed1b4cf3b0e388a0a07c096 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/7d2e54544ed1b4cf3b0e388a0a07c096 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T204500Z DTEND:20261010T214500Z SUMMARY:Cli-Fi: The Art of Blending Science and Creativity in Climate Change Fiction DESCRIPTION:This panel explores the topic of climate change fiction. Cli-fi authors will explore how authors use what is known and forecasted in climate change science to frame their story\, the art of blending climate change science\, imagination\, and creative writing craft to create powerful Cli-fi and the potential of this genre to amplify society's understanding of our climate change future\, and potentially stimulate societal action/response.\n\n\n CATEGORIES:PANEL DISCUSSION LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Museum Upstairs (no elevator)\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:0e2a9e963ba84067b1d06f91dc6f89d1 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/0e2a9e963ba84067b1d06f91dc6f89d1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T220000Z DTEND:20261010T230000Z SUMMARY:Beyond the Book Deal: Navigating the Obstacles of a Literary Life DESCRIPTION:You've finished the manuscript. Now the publishing journey begins. From querying agents and surviving rejection to finding alternative paths to publication and building a sustainable writing career\, this panel offers an honest look at what it really takes to become a published author. Three accomplished writers share the setbacks\, surprises\, and hard-won lessons behind their careers\, revealing that perseverance\, adaptability\, and community are just as important as talent. Whether you're pursuing traditional publishing or exploring other avenues\, you'll leave with practical strategies\, realistic expectations\, and renewed confidence to navigate the road ahead. CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Basket Room\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145 SEQUENCE:0 UID:3e88da066f27e31f56568448a180665d URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/3e88da066f27e31f56568448a180665d END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T220000Z DTEND:20261010T230000Z SUMMARY:Songwriting Workshop DESCRIPTION: \;A generative songwriting workshop centered on the edge of feeling\, where emotion is still forming and songs begin before they have words or shape. Together we will identify a “seed\,” a memory\, emotion\, image\, or fragment of truth\, and develop it into a songwriting starting point. Through guided prompts and group exercises\, we will explore how to translate experience into lyrics using both direct and indirect language. You will leave with a starting point to continue writing from\, along with practical tools for shaping raw feeling into the beginning of a song. CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:Tahoe Wine Collective\, 760 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:91998c1e0281137c6ca74ec78bfc758b URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/91998c1e0281137c6ca74ec78bfc758b END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T220000Z DTEND:20261010T230000Z SUMMARY:Teaching Poetry on the Inside: Writing as an Act of Service DESCRIPTION:Trying to teach poetry inside: How can a poem touch a person's life who is serving time? This is an old question but it has been answered repeatedly:  \;start by reading and then writing what might be small cables to the infinite wisdom of healing.  \;Teach people to trust again\, build a relationship based on mutual \;constructive feedback\, and slowly one's humanity emerges from the darkness. Shaun Griffin has been teaching a poetry workshop for decades at Northern Nevada Correctional Center.\n\n\n\n CATEGORIES:CRAFT TALK LOCATION:The Understory by Wonderwood Books\, 945 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145\, USA SEQUENCE:0 UID:0d39fcc0478a50a6029aa21f12bb08f4 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/0d39fcc0478a50a6029aa21f12bb08f4 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T220000Z DTEND:20261010T220000Z SUMMARY:In a Field of Voices: Writing as Relationship & Participation DESCRIPTION:In a time when attention is fragmented and language is increasingly shaped by reaction and persuasion\; writing offers more than a creative practice—it offers a way of deepening our relationship with the world and one another.\nBeginning with the question\, What kinds of relationships does writing invite us into? Participants will explore how voice emerges through attention\, curiosity\, and engagement with language\, place\, and community. Through reflection\, generative writing\, and shared response\, participants will discover that voice is not something to be found\, but something revealed \;through relationship.\n\nThe workshop introduces the idea of the erotics of attention—the vitality\, attraction\, and creative energy that draw us into genuine relationship with what calls us to write. Participants will leave with new writing\, practical practices\, and a renewed understanding of why their writing matters—not only on the page\, but as a lifelong practice of relationship and participation.\n \;\n \; CATEGORIES:GENERATIVE WORKSHOP LOCATION:Gatekeeper's Museum Library\, 130 W Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:48f57db13821d4a69b611d8d0c627b9f URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/48f57db13821d4a69b611d8d0c627b9f END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T220000Z DTEND:20261010T230000Z SUMMARY:Author Conversation with Cara Benson and Karen Terrey DESCRIPTION:An Armsfull of Birds: A Personal Field Guide to Love\, Loss\, and Commitment \;\nJoin poet\, essayist\, and storyteller Cara Benson for a discussion of her new memoir with Karen\nTerrey\, Nevada County Poet Laureate. Building on a long writing friendship that started in\ngraduate school\, this intimate conversation will explore questions of why a vulnerable and\nindividual human voice matters in the evolving world of AI\, how to discover the intersection of\nthe larger planetary story within our personal lives\, and methods for keeping our hearts in the\ngame of manifesting change as we collectively take care of the more than human. Benson will\nalso touch on the project of writing about her personal tragic loss\, finding an agent\, and\nultimately a publisher for her memoir.\n\n*This author conversation is ideal for readers.\n\n CATEGORIES:IN-CONVERSATION LOCATION:Tahoe City Library\, 740 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:853b5082ca303f28a03423294faa5026 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/853b5082ca303f28a03423294faa5026 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T220000Z DTEND:20261010T230000Z SUMMARY:Our Fascination with Cults: Exploring the Myths and Realities of Belief DESCRIPTION:This panel discussion brings together authors who have confronted the seductive pull of cults\, or have been born into them the belief systems that reshaped their lives. Together\, they explore what draws people into systems of control and what it takes to break free\, how their lives were shaped by the powerful pull of belonging\, belief\, and conditioning. \nThey discuss what happens when people are swept into powerful narratives\, why are people susceptible to charismatic leaders\, and what dangers arise when belief replaces questioning. In an era of influencer culture\, misinformation\, and fractured divides\, their insights reveal how limiting beliefs can entrap us and how writing becomes a tool for transformation. \;\n\n*If you love a good cult book and are fascinated by cults this is a great panel to attend.\n\n\n CATEGORIES:PANEL DISCUSSION LOCATION:Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema\, 475 N Lake Blvd SEQUENCE:0 UID:9aa7a65c1c5e83be755e33ca7c260fff URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/9aa7a65c1c5e83be755e33ca7c260fff END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261010T230000Z DTEND:20261011T003000Z SUMMARY:Book Fair - Author Meet & Greet Social: Free DESCRIPTION:Tahoe Literary Festival hosts a FREE Books\, Bubbles & Banters event open to everyone hosted by The Boatworks\, Tahoe Wine Collective\, Tahoe City Library and Friends of the Tahoe City Library. \;\nEnjoy libations from Tahoe Wine Collective while shopping the book fair and socializing with fellow writers. Many of the authors featured during the 2026 Tahoe Literary Festival will be on hand to sell and sign their books. \;This event is FREE to attend and open to all ages. No-cost registration highly recommended. \; CATEGORIES:FREE COMMUNITY EVENT LOCATION:Boatworks Mall\, 760 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:caa98e2d8f519f0e6f8ac5a4a27dcc9b URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/caa98e2d8f519f0e6f8ac5a4a27dcc9b END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261011T010000Z DTEND:20261011T023000Z SUMMARY:Singer & Songwriter Showcase: Free DESCRIPTION:Hosted by Will Richardson\, executive director of the Tahoe Institute for Natural Science\, this wildly popular event brings together talented singer-songwriters who will perform and share insights into their songwriting process\, background\, inspiration\, and the creative journey behind their music.\n\nThis is a free community event. No-cost registration highly recommended. \; CATEGORIES:FREE COMMUNITY EVENT LOCATION:Tahoe Wine Collective\, 760 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City SEQUENCE:0 UID:16fa29ea32a5298eb3afa9ec9cc96369 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/16fa29ea32a5298eb3afa9ec9cc96369 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261011T170000Z DTEND:20261011T200000Z SUMMARY:A Crash Course in Novel Writing with Grant Faulkner author\, co-founder of Flash Fiction Institute. (Separate ticket required) DESCRIPTION:One of the biggest obstacles any writer faces is writing the first draft of a novel. As Nora Ephron said\, “I think the hardest part about writing is writing.” Your story matters\, and "someday" is not the time to write it. If something has been holding you back from writing your novel — whether it be lack of time\, lack of motivation\, lack of knowing how to write it\, or just plain fear — then Grant Faulkner\, former Executive Director of National Novel Writing Month\, can help you get your creative juices flowing and take the first steps to planning — and writing — your novel. Warning: you will leave this session with a novel plan in hand\, so be prepared to write. CATEGORIES:FICTION LOCATION:Fairway Community Center\, 330 Fairway Drive Tahoe City\, CA 96145 SEQUENCE:0 UID:8f929bf6bf217dd7c89a6e9c2779ee93 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/8f929bf6bf217dd7c89a6e9c2779ee93 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261011T170000Z DTEND:20261011T200000Z SUMMARY:Writing your Life: A Generative Memoir Workshop with author\, memoirist and travel writer Suzanne Roberts. (Separate ticket required) DESCRIPTION:When you talk about your life\, do people say you should write a book? Now’s the time to start. No matter where you are in your memoir-writing journey\, this generative workshop will help you start\, develop\, or revise a memoir-in-process. We’ll work through a series of writing prompts\, exploring ways to get unstuck\, using specifics and sensory imagery\, and scene building. All levels are welcome. Bring paper and pen. CATEGORIES:MEMOIR LOCATION:SNOW Sports Museum\, 760 N Lake Blvd\, Tahoe City\, CA 96145\, USA SEQUENCE:0 UID:2567e3faad8a5eca275147d35586bce5 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/2567e3faad8a5eca275147d35586bce5 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTAMP:20260809T090710Z DTSTART:20261011T170000Z DTEND:20261011T200000Z SUMMARY:Writing About Our Fire: A Generative Poetry Workshop Toward Liberation and Joy with Lee Herrick\, California Poet Laureate. (Separate ticket required) DESCRIPTION:Join California Poet Laureate Lee Herrick for a hands-on poetry writing workshop at the Tahoe Literary Festival. Herrick is the author of four poetry collections\, In Praise of Late Wonder: New and Selected Poems\, Scar and Flower\, Gardening Secrets of the Dead\, \;and \;This Many Miles from Desire. Herrick currently serves his second term as California's Poet Laureate\, the first Asian American to hold the position. \n\nIn this workshop\, participants will write new poems through guided prompts and exercises\, with time to share work and get feedback in a low-pressure setting. Herrick's own poetry draws on memory\, identity\, and place. He'll bring that same attention to helping writers find material in their own lives and surroundings. Open to writers of all levels\, from first-time poets to those with an established practice. Bring a notebook or laptop. CATEGORIES:POETRY LOCATION:Fairway Community Center\, 330 Fairway Drive Tahoe City\, CA 96145 SEQUENCE:0 UID:fe112222d72676cc31b8fabffdaea037 URL:http://tahoelitfest26.sched.com/event/fe112222d72676cc31b8fabffdaea037 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR