It was the perfect day for curling up with a good book. The kind of day that is rainy and grey and has you yearning for a cup of tea and a cozy homemade quilt. But we ignored those urges, hopped on the metro, and immersed ourselves in a different kind of book experience: The National Book Festival. Soggy and surrounded by fellow book-loving strangers we eagerly plunked ourselves down in the children's tent and spent the afternoon listening to Matthew and Jennifer Hollman , Kevin Henkes, and William Wegman.
Matthew and Jennifer Hollman made us all laugh with stories of their sibling escapades and funny drawings. Kevin Henkes made me tear up when a fifteen year old girl stood up to express her love and admiration for his work and he subsequently became flustered and touched by her declarations. We also loved the drawings and letters he shared from admiring young readers through the years. And Willam Wegman showed lots of amusing photos of his beloved and famous canines while also taking the time to answer every single question that was asked of him including some from very young audience members. It really was a wonderful way to spend a rainy afternoon.
Sadly, we can't return tomorrow, but the weather is supposed to be better and there are a ton of good authors appearing tomorrow. And there are beautiful posters by Suzy Lee. And it is all free! So if you are in the D.C. area, head to the National Mall for this very special festival. Rain or shine, it really is worth the trip!
I'm glad you had a chance to go! I took the kids one year when we were there….and also sat in the children's tent. :) It's a very fun festival!
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