In a little under a week, children from several local schools will join eight national authors for the 40th Anniversary of the Children's Literature Festival of the Ozarks. The event is split between day time sessions, which is the majority of attendance and an ever-growing autograph party in the evening, during which students get some one on one time with the authors.

With authors ranging from the ever-popular Roland Smith to new authors Dusti Bowling and Niki Lenz to the returning favorites Jackson Pearce, Antony John, Stephanie Bearce, Margaret Haddix and Kate Klise. Committee members are excited to welcome fresh topics such as Dusti Bowling's take on children with disabilities in The Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus or to hear new stories about her life in Georgia, which also sure to entertain. 

While committee members can't wait to be returning after two years of holding back, COVID concerns are still present in their planning. "We have authors flying in from all over the country, so safety for authors, students, teachers and committee members is a priority," said committee chair and retired teacher, Rebecca Crowder. 

Author contact and retired librarian Linda Knight reaffirmed concerns by adding "Ever since COVID came into my life, I still till this day check my surroundings to see if I should a wear a mask. One of our authors said she would be checking with Greene County Health Department before the trip here to see if she would be coming to a hot zone."

Despite uncertainties with rising costs and COVID-19, over 1000 students and teachers will be joining the festival on October 13, 2022 for this hallmark year. 

When asked what the community can do to help this remarkable event, members responded that they are always searching for volunteers and donations. Volunteer opportunities may be found on the Children's Literature Festival website. Donations may be sent to Ms. Crowder, whose information may be found on the website, or by shopping through Amazon Smile with CLF listed as your chosen charity. You can also chat with the committee via the website for further information and details.