17TH ANNUAL
AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL Lee Child, Adriana Trigiani, Steve Berry, David Baldacci, Jacques Pépin, and more! Join us for page-turning fun, education and excitement, February 15 - 17, 2018
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ell, it’s true that Thoreau predated Kindles, iPads, eBooks and other technology at the time of his great essays, poetry and writings of the 1800s. However, his strong sentiments about books have stood the test of time. For three days in February, the Amelia Island Book Festival (AIBF) promises rabid readers, aspiring authors and literacy lovers of all ages a jam-packed slate of events with
a blockbuster lineup of New York Times bestselling authors, including Lee Child, Adriana Trigiani, Karin Slaughter, Jennifer Armentrout, Sherri Rinker and Jacques Pépin. Steve Berry returns as Honorary Chairman. Free activities targeted to specific age groups-such as elementary, middle and high school students, as well as book lovers of every niche, will be featured throughout the Festival.
Ticketed events for aspiring writers and literary aficionados are also offered. See the festival schedule at the end of this article or visit www. ameliaislandbookfestival.org for details on all events and activities. Proceeds from all ticketed festival events benefit the Authors in Schools Literacy Program for students of Nassau County—Connecting students, authors and books for lifelong learning.
Books are the treasured wealth of the world and the fit inheritance of generations and nations. –Henry David Thoreau, Walden
Author Face-Off Dinner Gala Supports Literacy in Nassau County
Lee Child
Karen Slaughter
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he Festival’s signature event features a panel of literary giants as they debate their craft. Led by Steve Berry, NYT bestselling authors Lee Child, Karin Slaughter, Jennifer Armentrout and Sherry Rinker deliver surprising and witty repartée in a multi-genre blockbuster panel discussion. You do not want to miss this unique opportunity to mix and
Steve Berry
mingle up close and personal with the creator of Jack Reacher and witness our award-winning literary lineup as they “face off” with each other. This very special evening is set for Fri., Feb. 16, 6 – 10 p.m., at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort. The evening includes an open bar cocktail reception with the authors, gourmet sit-down dinner (wine included)
Jennifer Armentrout
Sherry Rinker
and a limited live auction where the winning bidder can live on forever in a Jack Reacher novel. (This special prize is a generous donation by Lee Child.) Tickets are $175 per person, and can be purchased online at www. ameliaislandbookfestival.org. The evening’s Emcee and auctioneer is our own FL Senator Aaron Bean.
FESTIVAL SPONSORS Presenting Level: $9,000 and up Wm. L. Amos, Sr. Foundation Platinum Level: $5,000 – $9,000 Anonymous Donor – In Loving Memory of Shiela Fountain Hollie & Rick Keffer Rayonier, Inc. CBC National Bank Gold Level: $2,000 – $4,999 “An Anonymous Friend of the Festival” OnlineBinding.com R.L. Stine - Author The David Miller Family WestRock
Lessons from a Bestseller: Steve Berry’s Writers’ Workshop
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long with his wife and business partner, Elizabeth, Steve Berry facilitates this workshop for authors and would-be authors of every genre. This popular workshop is scheduled for Fri., Feb. 16 from 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., at FSCJ Nassau Campus – Bean
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Center in Yulee; registration begins at 8 a.m. Refreshments and box lunch are provided. Tickets are $150 per person, and can be purchased at www.ameliaislandbookfestival.org. Some scholarships are available for qualifying students.
Silver Level: $1,000 – $1,999 Debonair Bank of America Merrill Lynch – Houston, North, Park Group Dr. Andrew Weinstein and Joelle Crahay Darryl A. Field, DDS, PA Periodontics & Implant Dentistry Maurie Dugger Focus Investment Bankers – Fran & George Shea Giro di Mondo Publishing – Mark & Marie Fenn Horizons Restaurant Barb & Bruce Heggenstaller Mary Kay Andrews - Author Molina Healthcare, Inc. Omni A.I. Plantation Resort Rayonier Advanced Materials The Book Loft Bronze Level $500 - $999 Institute for Enterprise Ken & Victoria Lanier Rich & Marie Billings
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Authors in Schools… A book for every student
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It is a great thing to start life with a small number of really good books which are your very own. –Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
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he AIBF is home to the awardwinning Authors in Schools Literacy Program. With the annual support of sponsors, members, donors and fundraising events, the AIBF helps bring noted authors to every school in Nassau County and books for each student of the author they meet. This February, the Festival will purchase and gift more than 11,000 students with a book of the noted author they meet, in turn inspiring young people to achieve their goals. Among the student presenters are: International and NYT bestselling author David Baldacci, who will address high schools students in the county in two presentations during Authors in Schools day. Jennifer Armentrout, NYT bestselling YA author will speak to at several of the middle and high schools and NYT bestselling children’s author Sherri Rinker, who will address elementary school students. For a
full list of presenting authors and the schools visit the AIBF website. “The Authors in Schools Literacy Program has grown in the past few years encouraging area students to read and write,” said Dr. John Ruis, AIBF President and former Nassau County Schools Superintendent. “Being exposed to this level of quality authors—spending time with them— hearing how they develop ideas and get inspired—and taking home the book of the author they met…it’s an invaluable opportunity to help our
Author Expo/ Readers Extravaganza
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he three-day festival culminates in a family celebration of the written word. More than 100 published authors of all genres, fiction and non-fiction—thriller, young adult, children, romance, history, science fiction, self-help, biography, etc.—participate in meet-and-greets, book signings and sales. Breakout sessions feature NYT bestselling authors Steve Berry, Lee Child, Karin Slaughter, Jennifer Armentrout and Sherri Rinker. Jacques Pépin will be signing his latest book. Middle school and high school winners of the AIBF Short Story Essay Contest, “My Best Day Ever,” will receive their cash prizes and certificates and meet Lee Child. Throughout the day, festivalgoers are treated to entertainment, activities and prizes—for “kids” of all ages! There’ll be food and beverages, prize drawings and other special activities through the day. ‘Plus’, ADMISSION AND PARKING ARE FREE . The Expo is Sat., Feb. 17, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Fernandina Beach Middle School.
students develop important literary skills for their future.” AIBF annually solicits applications and books from prospective author presenters. This year, more than 70 authors submitted books to AIBF for consideration for the AIS program. The books are thoroughly reviewed by school media specialists, reading coaches and other educators to determine age appropriateness and applicability to the curriculum requirements. School representatives make the final selection of books and authors. This year AIBF will bring more than 25 authors to visit our schools. “The Authors in Schools Literacy Program is a perfect example of community partnerships at their best,” Dr. Ruis said. Donna Martin, School Board chair, added, “The Authors in Schools program is a tremendous gift to our students.” This year’s Authors in Schools Day is set for Fri., Feb. 16.
Tween/Teen Scene
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iddle and high school students have the opportunity to meet published Young Adult authors and learn about expressing themselves through fiction, poetry, graphic arts and more. Geared specifically to this audience, Tween/Teen Scene enables students to work and play in an atmosphere of creativity, caring and camaraderie. Author presenters include NYT bestselling authors Jennifer Armentrout, Laura Duksta, Kentrell Martin and Lt. Commander Robert Crosby. Refreshments and cool prizes such as Samsung Galaxy Tablets and more round out the fun! RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS FREE EVENT. Go to www.ameliaislandbookfestival.org or call the Boys & Girls Miller Freedom Center Club at (904) 261-1075. Tween/Teen Scene is Thurs., Feb. 15, 4:30 – 7 p.m., Boys & Girls Clubs, Miller Freedom Center, 942259 Old Nassauville Road, Fernandina Beach.
ameliaislandbookfestival.org • info@ameliaislandbookfestival.org • 904-624-1665 ~ AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL
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Literary Giants Headline Book Festival
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If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it. –Toni Morrison
STEVE BERRY Steve Berry returns to the AIBF as Honorary Chairman for the 3rd consecutive year. Steve is the New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling author of The Lost Order, The 14th Colony, The Patriot Threat, The Lincoln Myth, The King’s Deception, The Columbus Affair, The Jefferson Key, The Emperor’s Tomb, The Paris Vendetta, The Charlemagne Pursuit, The Venetian Betrayal, The Alexandria Link, The Templar Legacy, The Third Secret, The Romanov Prophecy and The Amber Room. His books have been translated into 40 languages with 20 million copies in 51 countries. The Bishop’s Pawn, the Cotton Malone Series Book 13, is now available for pre-order. This latest book chronicles his protagonist’s first case, the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., on that fateful day in Memphis. History lies at the heart of every Steve Berry novel. It’s his passion, one he shares with his wife, Elizabeth, which led them to create History Matters, a foundation dedicated to historic preservation. LEE CHILD Lee Child is the NYT bestselling author of the Jack Reacher thrillers— sales at 100 million+ and counting. Reacher #22, The Midnight Line, hit
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stores on Nov. 7 worldwide and has been enjoying NYT bestsellers listing ever since. His debut novel, Killing Floor, won both the Anthony and Barry awards for “Best First Mystery,” and The Enemy won both the Barry and Nero awards for “Best Novel.” Two of Child’s books have been made into feature films starring Tom Cruise as Jack Reacher. Lee, now a New Yorker, was born in Coventry, England. After part-time work in the theater he joined Granada Television in Manchester for what turned out to be an 18-year career as a presentation director during British TV’s “golden age.” At the age of 40, he left due to corporate restructuring. Ready to take a chance, Lee bought some paper and pencils, and wrote what turned out to be the first book in the Jack Reacher series. ADRIANA TRIGIANI NYT bestselling author of 17 books in fiction and nonfiction, Adriana Trigiani is also a playwright, television writer/producer and an award-winning filmmaker. She wrote and directed the major motion picture Big Stone Gap, filmed entirely on location in her Virginia hometown. Her newest novel—complete with a new cast of characters—debuts in fall 2018. Adriana is beloved by millions of readers around
the world for her popular novels—The Shoemaker’s Wife, the Valentine trilogy and Lucia, Lucia— as well as her latest bestseller, Kiss Carlo. Her themes of love and work, emphasis upon craftsmanship and family life have attracted legions of fans. According to Adriana, “...if there is one thing I hope my books do always and forever, it’s that they honor working people.” Her books have been translated in 36 countries around the world. KARIN SLAUGHTER Karin Slaughter is one of the world’s most popular and acclaimed storytellers, and is known for the “stories that get under your skin.” Published in 36 languages, with more than 35 million copies sold across the globe, her 16 novels include the Grant County and Will Trent books, as well as the Edgar-nominated Cop Town and the instant NYT bestselling novel, Pretty Girls. When asked about her writing schedule, Karin said, “Unfortunately, I’m not very disciplined. I’m more of a ‘run off into the mountains and write until I collapse’ author. I wish I could be more structured, but it’s been working for me so far, so who am I to judge?” Her Will Trent series, Grant County series and standalone novel Cop Town are all
AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL ~ ameliaislandbookfestival.org • info@ameliaislandbookfestival.org • 904-624-1665
in development for film and television. A native of Georgia, Karin currently lives in Atlanta. JENNIFER ARMENTROUT Jennifer Armentrout, #1 NYT bestselling author, spends her time watching really bad zombie movies when she’s not hard at work writing young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy and contemporary romance novels. In early 2015, Jennifer was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a group of rare genetic disorders that eventually results in loss of vision among other complications. Due to this diagnosis, educating people on the varying degrees of blindness has become of passion of hers, right alongside writing, which she plans to do as long as she can. Jennifer’s dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories. Her young adult contemporary The Problem with Forever is a 2017 RITA Award Winner in Young Adult Fiction. SHERRI RINKER In 2008, in the midst of hectically trying to manage the demands of being a working mom in an unfulfilling career, Sherri Rinker wrote Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site. It was picked up by the first publisher to whom it was sent! She is now a #1 NYT bestselling author of eight children’s books. Sherri began college as a journalism major, but moved to visual communications which combined creating beautiful, compelling compositions with visuals and text. After a 25-year graphic design career, she started writing books about big trucks to help kids go to sleep at bedtime. Construction Site paved the way for Mighty, Mighty Construction Site; Steam Train, Dream Train; and Big Machines. It’s Soo Quiet debuts in 2018. For a complete list of bestselling and award-winning authors presenting at the 2018 festival, as well as ticket information, please visit the website at www.ameliaislandbookfestival.org.
Schedule of Events All events and activities support the Authors in Schools Literacy Program THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2018 KICK-OFF LUNCHEON Keynote by New York Times Bestselling Author Adriana Trigiani Introduced by International Bestselling Author David Baldacci 12 noon – 2 pm Walker's Landing, Amelia Island Plantation
TWEEN/TEEN SCENE Young adult authors, breakout sessions, prizes and refreshments – open to all middle and high school students 4:30 – 7 pm Boys & Girls Clubs, Miller Freedom Center 942259 Old Nassauville Rd., Yulee FREE EVENT, RESERVATIONS REQUIRED www.ameliaislandbookfestival.org or at Miller Freedom Center, (904) 261-1075
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2018 LESSONS FROM A BESTSELLER: STEVE BERRY'S WRITERS' WORKSHOP Steve Berry is the NYT and #1 International Bestselling Author of more than 16 books. Steve and his wife and business partner, Elizabeth Berry, run this intense workshop for authors and would-be authors of every genre. 8:30 am – 1 pm; registration opens at 8 am FSCJ Nassau Campus – Bean Center 76346 William Burgess Blvd., Yulee Refreshments and box lunch provided $150 per person – purchase tickets at www.ameliaislandbookfestival.org AUTHORS IN SCHOOLS DAY – NASSAU COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS A memorable day where noted, published authors visit every public school in Nassau County, including several VPK program, spending time with students…reading, sharing and dreaming… together. 9 am to 3 pm (times are approximate; schools dictate exact start and end times) No cost to schools or students – AIBF secures authors and buys chosen presenting authors' books for students of the author they meet. AUTHOR FACE-OFF DINNER GALA Do not miss this unique opportunity to hear literary giants “face off” with each other on their craft! Led by AIBF Honorary Chairman Steve Berry, the panel includes Lee Child, Karin Slaughter, Jennifer Armentrout and Sherry Rinker. 6 – 10 pm Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort 39 Beach Lagoon Rd. Open bar cocktail reception, gourmet sit-down dinner (wine included), live auction, door prizes $175 per person – purchase tickets at www.ameliaislandbookfestival.org
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2018 AUTHOR EXPO/READERS EXTRAVAGANZA A family festival and celebration of the written word. Food, fun, entertainment and activities – for “kids” of all ages! Special activities for the little ones. Prizes for children, tweens and adults throughout the day. World-renowned author presentations, breakout sessions, book signings and sales. 10 am to 5 pm Fernandina Beach Middle School 315 Citrona Dr., Fernandina Beach FREE ADMISSION & FREE PARKING
ameliaislandbookfestival.org • info@ameliaislandbookfestival.org • 904-624-1665 ~ AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL
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C Combining 175 years of scientific discipline with a timeless adherence d tto Romantic, aesthetic, and existential tradition, The Bull Shark e Compendium brilliantly explores C tthe science, culture, and philosophy ssurrounding one of the world’s most llegendary creatures.
Peter Benchley, author of the book that inspired the movie Jaws, was well aware that sharks have a public relations problem. He spent many years combatting the misconceptions that have made shark conservation such a tricky issue. A new series of books, created by the “hybridist author” Dr Jaws, ...disabuses readers of these sorts of inaccuracies and celebrate sharks for what they are—beautiful and fascinating animals that are an important part of their ecosystem.” ~ Dr. Caitlin Kight, Current Conservation Magazine
To get your copy in print or digital form, visit www.drjaws.net or Amazon.com. @doctorjaws
“Feeding the Enemy is a fascinating family saga of undying love, personal sacrifice, quiet heroism, and triumph.”
“Finally! A beautifully written caregiver’s memoir, filled with insight, heart and tons of practical information.” –Adrienne Gruberg President/Founder, The Caregiver Space, Inc.
AVAILABLE at:
www.jrsharpauthor.com, the Book Loft at Amelia Island or order from Amazon.
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AMELIA ISLAND BOOK FESTIVAL ~ ameliaislandbookfestival.org • info@ameliaislandbookfestival.org • 904-624-1665