Young Authors Conference in Wooster to feature Shannon Hale, honor student writers

The Buckeye Book Fair, in partnership with Wayne County Public Library and Tri-County Educational Service Center, announced the 2025 Young Authors Conference and the inaugural Young Authors Excellence Award Ceremony, both taking place Thursday, Oct. 30 at the Greystone Event Center in Wooster.

These literary events will celebrate student creativity, recognize exceptional young writers and feature a keynote presentation by New York Times bestselling author Shannon Hale. Best known for "Princess Academy," "Real Friends" and "Kind of a Big Deal," Hale has won legions of fans with her storytelling and advocacy for young readers, especially girls. Her appearance will cap off a day designed to ignite imagination and foster a lifelong love of reading and writing in Ohio’s youth.

During the daytime Young Authors Conference, students in third grade through eighth grade will participate in workshops with published authors and illustrators, learn about the creative process, and build confidence in their own storytelling skills.

That evening the spotlight will shine on one young writer from each participating school who will be honored during the Young Authors Excellence Award Ceremony. These students have been nominated by their teachers for their dedication, originality and passion for writing.

“We believe in the power of stories to change lives,” said Kimberly Jarvis, executive director of the Buckeye Book Fair. “By bringing together celebrated authors and emerging young voices, we are nurturing not just future writers but future leaders, thinkers and dreamers.”

Both events are part of the Buckeye Book Fair’s year-round commitment to literacy, made possible by support from the Ohio Arts Council, local schools and community partners. For event information, registration and updates, visit www.buckeyebookfair.org/2025/07/21/brave-bold-young-authors/.