AWP Annual Conference and Bookfair to Be in Denver in 2010

The Association of Writers and Writing Programs has sent out a brochure annnouncing their annual conference and bookfair. It is to be held at the Hyatt Regency Denver Colorado Convention Center from April 7 - 10, 2010. Registration for attendance is now open and places are filling fast. In fact, by the time the brochure was printed, one of the available hotels were already booked.

At this conference, attendees can choose between over 400 literary readings, lectures, and panel discussions on contemporary literature, the craft of writing, publishing, and teaching. The bookfair will feature more than 500 literary presses, journals, editors, and publishers. Over 1,000 of the most prominent figures in letters will head up the panels and readings (some are listed below). For those who enjoy networking and extracurricular (so to speak) activities, there will also be parties, dances, off-site events, and literary receptions. It is expected that more than 8,500 individuals involved in the various fields of letters will attend.

The featured presenters are Michael Chabon, Rita Dove, Leslie Marmon Silko, David Wroblewski, Robert Hass, Barbara Ras, Etgar Keret, George Saunders, Michael Nava, Achy Obejas, Rick Bass, Terry Tempest Williams, Gary Snyder, and Ann Waldman. Other presenters include Joy Harjo, Jean Valentine, Liz Gonzales, Carolina Monsivais, Michelle Otero, Phillip Lopate, Marie Ponsot, Sapphire, Bonnie jo Campbell, Sydney Lea, Jill McCorckle, Nick Flynn, Natasha Trethewey (whom I once gave a hard time by challenging her during a discussion- she took it well in stride and even seemed open to considering my arguments. All in the name of learning.), Kevin Young, Kim Addonizio, Amiri Baraka, Yusef Komunyakaa, Toi Derricotte, Honor Moore, Gregory Orr, Carolyn Forche, Alicia Ostriker, Philip Schultz, Marilyn Hacker, and C.D. Wright, among others.

Early Bird Registration (Sept 1 - December 15, 2009) is $160 for nonmembers and Reglar Registration (December 16, 2009- February 28, 2010) is $185. Onsite Registration (during the days of events) is $205. These prices are somewhat lower for members and there are other prices for Spouse, Student, Exhibitor, and Student Exhibitor. Hotels must be booked and paid seperately. Registration is available online or by mail. Persons with disabilities are urged to call or email by January 15, 2010 if any special services, equipment, or accomodations will be required.

More information is available at www.awpwriter.org/.