Though it feels like the National Book Festival has been around forever, it’s actually a somewhat recent event. But the fact the event has become so ingrained into the fabric of D.C. is a testament to the power of the written word as well as the setting.
The 10th annual National Book Festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday between Third and Seventh streets on the National Mall.
“It’s become a Washington and an American institution,” Matt Raymond, Library of Congress director of communications and a festival spokesman, said. The LOC organizes and sponsors the event.
This year’s festival features more than 70 authors in various genres, including fiction and mystery, poetry and prose, history and biography, contemporary life and children’s books.
“As the National Book Festival grew, it became easier to get high-profile authors,” said Raymond, before adding “The emphasis is always on that interaction [with readers].”
Most participants will conduct readings and discussions of their works, as well as signings. Among the authors slated for the event include awarding-winning novelist Jonathan Franzen, New Yorker editor David Remnick, chef Spike Mendelsohn and popular mystery writer Martha Grimes.
“Principally, I enjoy meeting with people who read my books, and I enjoy meeting other writers,” said the prolific Grimes, whose recent effort is “The Black Cat.” The Bethesda resident added that she doesn’t go to large-scale events, and is looking forward to seeing Franzen and Scott Turow.
Silver Spring resident Olga Grushin is participating in the book festival for the first time. The Moscow native has written the novels “The Dream Life of Sukhanov” and “The Line.”
“It’s exciting to be part of something like this,” she said. “I always like meeting with the readers.”
During Grushin’s presentation, she plans on hearing from her fans as opposed to reading aloud.
“I always prefer to take questions rather than read,” she said. “For me, it’s more interesting to talk to people.”
James Ransome of upstate New York is also a first-time participant.
“I have a vision of what it’s going to look like,” Ransome said of the festival. “I think it’s much bigger than I imagine.”
The children’s author and illustrator’s most recent work is “Gunner, Football Hero.”
“It’s always good to meet people who enjoy books, and to talk about my new project,” Ransome said. “The idea of being a part of this huge event is really exciting.”
Added Raymond: “It’s so invigorating. It’s my favorite day of the year.”
