On Oct. 1, hundreds of teen readers convened downtown on the St. Edward’s University campus for the Texas Teen Book Festival (TTBF). The festival featured a line-up of 35 authors, including special guest Mindy Kaling and Keynote speakers Laini Taylor and Leigh Bardugo.

TTBF lasted all day, with book signings, panels, and speakers for attendees to interact with some of their favorite authors. The festival kicked off with a book signing and chat by Mindy Kaling where she addressed her autobiographies, childhood, and interest in both writing and comedy. Readers could also attend panels where the authors of similarly-themed books discussed a number of topics, such as the mythology that inspired their books, secrets, and magic. At the end of each panel, the moderator allotted time for audience questions, allowing readers to inquire about writing, as well as more humorous aspects, such as which Hogwart’s houses the authors would sort their characters into.

“There were a lot of cool things,” Meredith Hoover ‘19 said. “My favorite thing that I went to see was the ending keynote speaker, Leigh Bardugo. The talks were really entertaining and the panels were amazing. It’s the best way to spend your Saturday.”

While some authors were busy with panels and signings, others had time to set up camp in St. Edward’s Alumni Gym and promote their books. Swag bags and goodies were given away, and readers could talk to authors about their works and what they were about, allowing for both parties to get to know each other.

“One of the things I love about going to events like this is meeting new readers,” author Rose Garcia said. “I often come back and do repeat events, so I end up actually gaining a fanbase, which I love. Then I get to see people over and over and get to know a lot of my readers, so for me, that’s the most important thing: getting to know my reader.”

The 2016 Texas Teen Book festival was a success, drawing in hundreds of readers with the variety of activities that were offered. Between seven different author talks and panels, readers had a full day of activities to attend.

“This year I got to meet David Arnold, who is basically my favorite YA author,” Kate Lee ‘19 said, “so that was incredible. I also got to interview Renee Adhein. I love going because it gives me an opportunity to meet authors and other readers who appreciate the exquisite community that only books can create.”

If you missed out on the Texas Teen Book Festival, you can attend the Texas Book Festival on Nov. 6 and 7.