Writers Conference Schedule at a Glance

Friday, Oct.17

Morning Music with Calvin Arsenia

Friday, Oct.17 from 9:30 – 10:15 in Carmack
Ease into the first full day of the conference with the soulful sounds of acclaimed musician Calvin Arsenia. Enjoy a gentle atmosphere where you can sip your coffee, settle in and let the music set a beautiful, inspiring tone for the day ahead.

Getting R.A.W. about Literacy: Growing Young Readers through Community Collaboration

Friday, Oct.17 from 9:30 – 10:15 in Logan
Enhancing literacy among young readers starts with strong community collaboration, and this energetic, interactive presentation explores how to make that happen. Using the R.A.W. Network framework, it showcases how schools, libraries, bookstores and local organizations can work together to create inclusive, literacy-rich environments accessible to all children and families. Through real-life success stories and actionable strategies, attendees will see how these partnerships can significantly boost reading proficiency and enthusiasm. With a focus on the essential roles of parents, educators and community leaders, the session offers practical steps to build or strengthen local literacy efforts and nurture a culture where every child can thrive as a reader.

Storytelling That Sings: Writing for Children with Mr. Stinky Feet

Friday, Oct.17 from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. in Conference Room 20 (recorded and live stream)
Step into the joyful world of writing for children with award-winning kid rocker and author Jim “Mr. Stinky Feet” Cosgrove. With his signature blend of heart, humor and music-fueled energy, Jim will share behind-the-scenes stories and practical tips from his journey as a children’s book author and performer. Discover how to connect authentically with kids by crafting stories that spark imagination and help little readers laugh, think, process emotions and feel seen. Whether you're just starting out or polishing your next picture book, you'll walk away with fresh inspiration, helpful tools and a whole lot of encouragement to let your playful side shine through in your writing. After all, writing for kids is serious fun!

Truth is the Arrow, Mercy is the Bow Book Discussion

Friday, Oct.17 from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. in Conference Rm 1
Join fellow writers for a deep dive into Steve Almond’s “Truth is the Arrow, Mercy is the Bow,” an unflinching and inspiring guide to the art of storytelling. Part craft manual, part call to arms, Almond urges us to tell the stories only we can tell – bravely, honestly and with compassion. Registration is required. Prior to the discussion date, Library staff will email registrants with details about how to get a copy of the book.

Meditation to Manifestation: Using Mindfulness and Community to Complete and Release your Poetry with Natasha Ria El-Scari

Friday, Oct.17 from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. in Conference Room 2
Rooted in meditative traditions that evolved into what we now call mindfulness, this session uses stillness and reflection as a gateway into poetic creation. Participants will engage in a guided mindfulness activity to ground their thoughts and intentions before drafting a new poem in session, allowing for deeper clarity and purpose in their writing. Centered on the voices and artistry of African American women poets and writers, this course brings together meditation and creative expression, offering inspiration and guidance as participants explore where their own words may lead.

Let’s Make Manga! with Misako Rocks!

Friday, Oct.17 from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. in Conference Room 4
This engaging session begins with a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind the “Bounce Back” series and “How to Draw Kawaii Manga” series, offering students an inside view of what it’s like to be a working artist and manga creator. They’ll follow the step-by-step journey of how these books were made, from initial concept to final artwork. It will then transition into a highly interactive manga drawing workshop, where students can choose from pre-designed samples and create their own original manga characters based on their selections. With guidance throughout, they’ll discover just how easy and fun it can be to unlock their creativity. The session concludes with a Q&A, giving students the chance to ask questions about art, storytelling or the life of a manga artist.

Welcome to the Day

Friday, Oct. 17 from 10:30 – 11 a.m. in Carmack
Start strong as we set the stage for an energizing day – offering a warm welcome, a quick look at what’s in store and gratitude for the writers, readers and partners who make this community thrive. Hear a few words of inspiration and an invitation to dive in, meet new people and make something extraordinary.

KanMoWriMo Presents: Jumpstart Your Novel

Friday, Oct.17 from 11 – 11:45 a.m. in Carmack
Embrace the scariest part of writing a novel: beginning! Whether you’re looking to dip your toe into a monthly challenge or you’re just tired of feeling like you don’t have a handle on the start of your project, we’re here to help. Presenters will walk you through exercises for getting the first words on the page and provide a fun “Jumpstart Your Novel” activity zine to work through your creativity flow.

KC Book Beat 101: Local Stories, Big Impact with Staci Hubbard and Trisha Otis

Friday, Oct.17 from 11 – 11:45 a.m. in Logan
Curious about KC Book Beat? We’re a nonprofit based in Kansas City that’s all about lifting local authors, small businesses and creatives through storytelling and connection. In this session, you’ll get an intro to who we are and what we do. From our indie author catalog to our signature events like Lit & Libations and Nerd Fest, we’re here to celebrate creativity and build a stronger literary community. We believe in breaking down barriers, removing gatekeeping and creating spaces where every voice matters. You’ll learn how we support authors at every level, partner with local businesses and offer real opportunities that make a difference. If you’re a writer, reader or creative entrepreneur, we’re ready to help you get seen, get connected and grow your impact. Come find out how you can get involved and get inspired.

How to Conquer Writer's Block (and the Other Evil Voices in Your Head) with Steve Almond

Friday, Oct.17 from 11 – 11:45 a.m. in Conference Room 20
This lecture will focus on the emotional struggles we bring to our writing, but that don’t usually get discussed. We’ll explore everything from the anxiety of exposure to the crippling doubts that drive us into writer’s block — without judgment or platitudes. The best part? No question is off limits: Can I tell the truth about my abusive parent? Is it wrong to be jealous of a famous friend? What if I’m just not good enough? At the center of our discussion is radical questions: Is it possible to view moments, and even eras, of creative doubt as necessary and even essential to our artistic growth? How can we move from anxiety and self-loathing to a posture of forgiveness and curiosity? This is a session for anyone who’s ever struggled to get going — and keep going — at the keyboard.

Truth is the Arrow, Mercy is the Bow Book Discussion

Friday, Oct.17 from 11 – 11:45 a.m. in Conference Rm 1
Join fellow writers for a deep dive into Steve Almond’s “Truth is the Arrow, Mercy is the Bow,” an unflinching and inspiring guide to the art of storytelling. Part craft manual, part call to arms, Almond urges us to tell the stories only we can tell – bravely, honestly and with compassion. Registration is required. Prior to the discussion date, Library staff will email registrants with details about how to get a copy of the book.

Meditation to Manifestation: Using Mindfulness and Community to Complete and Release your Poetry with Natasha Ria El-Scari

Friday, Oct.17 from 11 – 11:45 a.m. in Conference Room 2
Rooted in meditative traditions that evolved into what we now call mindfulness; this session uses stillness and reflection as a gateway into poetic creation. Participants will engage in a guided mindfulness activity to ground their thoughts and intentions before drafting a new poem in session, allowing for deeper clarity and purpose in their writing. Centered on the voices and artistry of African American women poets and writers, this course brings together meditation and creative expression, offering inspiration and guidance as participants explore where their own words may lead.

You are Enough! A Writer’s Guide to Being Cool with Yourself with Jim Cosgrove

Friday, Oct.17 from noon-1 p.m. in Carmack
Join veteran performer and author Jim “Mr. Stinky Feet” Cosgrove for a dynamic and introspective discussion about self-worth and how language, stories and self-talk can ignite (or sabotage) success. Jim will share mostly true stories and a few toe-tapping tall tales from his colorful career as a writer and composer to emphasize that taking a more childlike (not childish) approach to life can make a remarkable difference in our success as writers and humans. Warning: Spontaneous singing, laughter and bursts of creativity may occur. Shoes optional, imagination required!

Writers Row

Friday, Oct. 17 from 1 – 4 p.m. in Adult Nonfiction
Explore Writers Row, a vibrant gathering space where creativity, community and resources converge. Meet local authors, publishers, writing groups and community organizations and programs that support and celebrate the writing lifestyle. Browse information, discover opportunities and connect with fellow writers and readers. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, partnerships or your next great read, Writers Row is the place where stories — and connections — begin.

A Journey from Japan to U.S. with Misako Rocks!

Friday, Oct.17 from 1 – 1:45 p.m. in Logan
Speaker Misako Rocks shares her journey of leaving Japan at a young age to pursue her dream of becoming an artist in America. She opens up about the challenges of adapting to a new country, culture and school, and how he explored many paths — facing frequent setbacks — before ultimately achieving success as a manga artist. Misako’s story is a powerful reminder that failure is part of the process, and that stepping outside your comfort zone is often the key to growth. Attendees will leave encouraged to take more risks and stay committed to their goals, no matter how big or far away they may seem.

Establishing the Facts, Chasing the Story with Patrick Kelly

Friday, Oct.17 from 1 – 1:45 p.m. in Conference Room 20
To write a well-rounded and credible narrative, writers must dig into reliable data and facts. “Establish the Stats, Chase the Story” encourages the use of trustworthy sources — many of which are available through public libraries — and offers practical strategies for organizing and using that information into the writing process.

Playing with Tropes: or How You Can Learn to Stop Worrying and Love the Trope with Lindsay Kennedy

Friday, Oct.17 from 1 – 1:45 a.m. in Conference Room 4
Forbidden Love. The Chosen One. An Unreliable Narrator. All of these are storytelling tropes that have been done to death, but that is in part because of how compelling they can be when used well or twisting them in unusual ways. You have probably experienced a time when you accidentally wrote something like this in your creative work. Tropes are not inherently bad, if we know how to use them, challenge them, and twist them in interesting ways. Come to this workshop to learn how to play with tropes and unlock a new level in your creative writing!

KanMoWriCo Presents: Writing Authentically with Diversity presented by Joanie Satzman

Friday, Oct.17 from 1 – 2:30 p.m. in Conference Room 1
Writers can bring all kinds of identities into the light, yet they are often afraid of doing it wrong. In this workshop led by Joanie Saltzman, co-organizer of KanMoWriCo, we will address the importance of writing authentic, diverse characters and avoiding the pitfalls of stereotypes and caricatures of marginalized identities. Together, we will approach diversity in your story in a way that is respectful and inclusive, while deepening the richness of your work. We will look at resources available to writers who want to work with marginalized identities and generate work creating authentic characters.

Obsession Is Your Superpower: How Your Hang-Ups Help Your Stories with Steve Almond

Friday, Oct.17 from 1 – 2:30 p.m. in Conference Room 2
All great writing — whether fiction or nonfiction —arises from a writer’s obsessions. In this freewheeling session, we’ll discuss how to share our obsessions on the page, without falling prey to self-absorption or sentiment. We’ll look at the work of masters such as Nora Ephron, Joan Didion and Samantha Irby, and generate some work in class by confessing to our own obsessions. Check your inhibitions at the door.

Panel Discussion: Research Methodologies with Jim Cosgrove, Lindsay Kennedy, Gustavo Adolfo Aybar and Natasha Ria El-Scari

Friday, Oct.17 from 2 – 2:45 p.m. in Carmack
How do writers actually find what they need — and know when to stop looking and start drafting? In this lively, practical panel, children’s and nonfiction author Jim Cosgrove, playwright Lindsay Kennedy, and poets Gustavo Adolfo Aybar and Natasha Ria El-Scari compare the ways they chase questions, wrangle sources and translate research into voice-driven work. From interviewing kids and caretakers to mining archives and FOIA requests, from field notes and sensitivity reads to sound, movement and place-based inquiry, our panelists will share workflows, pitfalls and time-saving habits. You’ll leave with concrete strategies for scoping a project, setting research boundaries, organizing material and ethically citing community knowledge — whether you’re building a picture book, a play or a poetry collection.

Doing the Impossible: Promoting Authentically and Enthusiastically on Social Media with Hazel Krebs

Friday, Oct.17 from 2 – 2:45 p.m. in Logan
Hazel Krebs (she/her) is a bold, creative force in branding and marketing, and you’ll notice it the moment she walks in. First, it’s the hair. Then, the outfit that matches it. But what truly stands out is her message: consistent, compelling and unmistakably authentic — whether online, on stage or in casual conversation. In this session, Hazel will guide you through the essentials of personal branding, starting with how to define your brand through your own authenticity (which makes everything easier!). From there, you’ll explore how to express your brand confidently online, in person or anywhere in between. We’ll also tackle the common barriers to being your real self on social media and how to break through them. Bring your questions about branding, social media, promotions or anything in between. Leave with tools to promote your most authentic self, wherever you go.

Reverse-Engineering a Picture Book with Michelle Lin

Friday, Oct.17 from 2 – 2:45 p.m. in Conference Room 20 (recorded)
In picture books where the author and illustrator are separate, the process begins with the author’s text, followed by the illustrator’s interpretation of what to bring to life visually. Many beginning picture book writers make the mistake of writing too much text and leaving nothing to the illustrator's imagination. This lecture will discuss the interplay between words and pictures in successful children's books. Attendees will also be presented illustrations, from which they will be asked to write accompanying text. The goal of this "reverse-engineering" lecture and the exercises is to help budding authors become more familiar with picture book text, what can be expressed in writing and what can be left to the illustration.

Darius The Great Is Not Okay: From Idea To Novel with Adib Khorram

Friday, Oct.17 from 2 – 2:45 p.m. in Conference Room 4
Adib takes his audience through the process of writing “Darius the Great is Not Okay,” from initial idea, through research, drafting, revision and the publication process. Emphasis is placed on mining one’s own experiences to create emotional truth and the importance of revision to the process.

Establish the Stats, Chase the Story Workshop with Patrick Kelly

Friday, Oct.17 from 3 – 4:30 p.m. in Conference Room 1
Gathering accurate data and facts is essential if you want your writing to be both engaging and able to withstand scrutiny. In this interactive session, attendees will explore resources to help uncover reliable data and have the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas.

How to Write Sex Scenes without Shame with Steve Almond

Friday, Oct.17 from 3 – 4:30 p.m. in Conference Room 2
People think about sex all the time — they even have it occasionally — but writers tend to shy away from the subject. Which is crazy: Sex is the one experience that makes us all hopeful and embarrassed and vulnerable (at least if we're doing it right). In this freewheeling session, we'll look at the work of Mary Gordon, Mary Gaitskill and other masters, discovering how these writers suffuse their sex scenes with genuine emotion and ecstatic sensation and learning how we can do the same in our work. Arrive ready to lay your characters bare.

Panel Discussion: (In/Ex)clusivity with Adib Khorram, Hazel Krebs, Joanie Saltzman, and Dr. Marlee S. Bunch

Friday, Oct.17 from 3 – 3:45 p.m. in Carmack
Who gets a seat at the table — and who decides? In this engaging conversation, author Adib Khorram, writer/activist Hazel Krebs, Joanie Saltzman of KanMoWriCo and educator-scholar Dr. Marlee S. Bunch explore the many ways inclusion and exclusion shape creative work and writing communities. From access to opportunities and representation on the page to the subtle forms of gatekeeping that affect whose voices are heard, the panelists will share personal experiences, professional insights and strategies for building spaces where more stories can thrive.

Children’s Publishing 101: Picture Books with Jody Jensen Shaffer

Friday, Oct.17 from 3 – 3:45 p.m. in Logan
This session covers everything from how to develop a winning picture book idea to building compelling characters and storylines. It’s designed specifically for those interested in traditional publishing (not self-publishing).

Poetry Recitation: Exploring the Intersection of Memory, Adaptation, and Place with Jordan Stempleman

Friday, Oct.17 from 3 – 3:45 p.m. in Conference Rm 20 (not available in Library OnDemand)
Join poet and editor Jordan Stempleman as he explores the origins of Windfall Room, the unique poetry journal he co-edits that centers on the art of recitation. Stempleman will discuss the relationship between poet and poem, and how contributors to the journal respond to themes of anamnesis, locale and transformation within its editorial focus. He’ll also speak to the importance of memorization and the subtle challenges of translating poetry from the page to live performance. Through curated screenings of featured poems, Stempleman will examine how different environments shape the act of recitation, revealing poetry’s potential to transcend the isolating boundaries often linked with the written word.

Let’s Make Manga! with Misako Rocks!

Friday, Oct.17 from 3 – 3:45 p.m. in Conference Room 4
This engaging session begins with a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind the “Bounce Back” series and “How to Draw Kawaii Manga” series, offering students an inside view of what it’s like to be a working artist and manga creator. They’ll follow the step-by-step journey of how these books were made, from initial concept to final artwork. It will then transition into a highly interactive manga drawing workshop, where students can choose from pre-designed samples and create their own original manga characters based on their selections. With guidance throughout, they’ll discover just how easy and fun it can be to unlock their creativity. The session concludes with a Q&A, giving students the chance to ask questions about art, storytelling or the life of a manga artist.

Finding Ourselves through Poetry and Oral Histories with Jordan Stempleman and Dr. Marlee S. Bunch

Friday, Oct.17 from 4 – 4:45 p.m. in Logan
Join us for a welcoming poetry and writing workshop where we’ll read poems, generate new ones using writing prompts and take time to share and reflect on what we’ve written. We’ll discuss, learn, and laugh along the way. This workshop offers something for anyone interested in exploring the self and the stories and histories that shape who we are. We hope you’ll join us!

Everything I Need To Know About Writing I Learned From Star Trek with Adib Khorram

Friday, Oct.17 from 4 – 4:45 p.m. in Conference Room 20
Explore the storytelling lessons hidden in the final frontier. Join award-winning author Adib Khorram “Darius the Great Is Not Okay” and “I'll Have What He's Having” as he shares his love of writing, living a creative life, and how the wisdom of Star Trek informs them both.

Look Who’s Talking with Mary-Lane Kamberg

Friday, Oct.17 from 4 – 4:45 p.m. in Conference Room 4
Dialogue is one of the best ways to reveal character and move a story along. It’s an exchange of ideas, perspectives or sentiments that promotes understanding and connection among characters, as well as readers. Some experts on storytelling say, “The more dialogue, the better.” But how do you show readers who is talking? How can you avoid repeating “said” and “asked?” This session covers nine ways to show who is speaking. It also includes use of dialog and when not to use it, as well as what printed dialogue looks like, punctuation and ways to show characters communicating through body language.

Reception: Writers (re)United with Latin American music by KIMSA

Friday, Oct. 17 from 5 – 5:45 p.m. in Carmack
Celebrate the power of storytelling, community and connection for a lively reception bring writers, readers, and creators together. Enjoy conversation and camaraderie, set to the vibrant rhythms of KIMSA. The band name, a Quechua word for "three.” Through their unique instrumentation, inspiring rhythms and vibrant melody, they celebrate the joy of creating community. KIMSA roots their sound in the rhythms, melodies and instruments of the rich cultures of Latin American, honoring Mother Earth and, by extension, all her children. The songs fluctuate between personal introspection and high-energy festival, guiding the listener through a dynamic and moving experience. Whether you’re meeting new friends or reconnecting with familiar faces, this is your moment to unwind, recharge, and revel in the creative spirit that unites us all.