A new initiative aimed at promoting literacy and supporting local writers is set to debut later this month.
The Author’s Village, organised by NGO Arouca Soul Kitchen (ASK), seeks to provide a platform for local authors while encouraging a greater appreciation for reading and Caribbean literature.
Vice Chairperson at ASK, Prudence Williams LaBorde, said the event was created in response to limited opportunities for writers to showcase their work outside of established literary festivals and book fairs.
“The more opportunities for you to talk about the book, the better it is for you. And for me, just talking about my book landed me speaking opportunities, allowed people to just get to know me some more. And I would want the same for my fellow authors, my local authors.”
She said the event will bring together writers from a wide range of genres, giving them the chance to engage directly with readers and share their work.
“I’ve seen persons who have business books, those who are into wedding and event planning. You know, you could even ask persons about the services they provide as well. I saw an author who is purely fictional, and his characters are out of this world. We have books, authors, and books with, you know, personal development.”
Mrs Williams LaBorde added that the initiative also seeks to promote literacy at a time when digital media continues to reshape how people consume information.
The Author’s Village takes place on June 27th at Wilson Field in Arouca, from 11am to 5pm.