We are thrilled to have Johnson County Library’s very own Anna Madrigal at this year’s Writers Conference. Anna is a library branch manager who has dabbled in poetry, prose, and creative nonfiction since her teenage years. The written word has always offered her a way to explore and process the chaotic, bittersweet world we all find ourselves in.
I’m especially excited to have Anna at the conference because she is my branch manager. Over the past several years Anna has guided and encouraged me and our team through some big challenges and changes. She’s always a friendly face and a supportive listener.
Anna will be providing a drop-in activity at this year’s conference: Metaphor Dice! This writing tool is a fun way to experiment with language and come up with surprising combinations to spice up your writing. If you’ve never tried using these fun dice, make sure to stop by Anna’s table during the conference!
You can register for the conference here. Registration isn’t required but is appreciated, and your RSVP includes both days of the conference, Nov. 3 and 4. Sessions are available on a first-come first-serve basis. We will also be hosting a Writers Conference Kickoff on Thursday, Nov. 2.
Inspired by this year’s conference book, By the Book: Writers on Literature and the Literary Life from The New York Times Book Review, we asked Anna a few questions to get to know her better:
1. What's in your TBR pile?
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas (I know, I'm so behind on this one!)
2. What are you reading right now?
Thin Skin by Jenn Shapland
3. Do you have a favorite book you love to recommend?
I'll never not have Hanya Yanagihara's A Little Life in my mind, although I only recommend it to those who like very, very dark subject matter.
4. Do you have a favorite bookstore?
Prospero's, Dusty Bookshelf (Lawrence), and BLK + BRWN