Garth Stein Announced as a Headline Author at DSM Book Festival
DOWNTOWN DES MOINES, IOWA (Nov. 28, 2018) — Garth Stein, best known as the author of contemporary classic “The Art of Racing in the Rain,” will be a headline author at the DSM Book Festival on Saturday, March 30, 2019. The first annual DSM Book Festival will be held from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. at Capital Square and Cowles Commons.
“The Art of Racing in the Rain” is a quirky and inspiring novel about a beloved philosopher dog named Enzo who encourages humans to chase after their dreams. It has sold more than 6 million copies, been translated into 35 languages and spent more than three years on The New York Times bestseller list. The book is the inspiration behind a movie by the same title due out in 2019 featuring Milo Ventimiglia, Kevin Costner and Amanda Seyfried. Stein is also the author of the award-winning books “A Sudden Light,” “How Evan Broke His Head and Other Secrets” and “Raven Stole the Moon,” along with a full-length play, “Brother Jones.”
Stein is the second headlining author announced for The Festival. Nnedi Okorafor, who wrote “Black Panther: Long Live the King,” will also be a headlining author.
The DSM Book Festival will feature internationally-acclaimed authors, book club discussions led by featured commentators, hands-on activities, children’s programming, food, drink, live music and more. A central stage will showcase poetry slams, creative contests and will highlight a variety of singers/songwriters.
The Festival is now accepting applications for local authors, illustrators, publishers and nonprofits to be a part of The Festival. Interested participants may apply online through Friday, Jan. 11. Accepted applications will be notified by Friday, Jan. 25.
The DSM Book Festival has received a grant award from Humanities Iowa, a state-based affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Additionally, The Festival is being sponsored by Prairie Meadows, The Des Moines Register, Hubbell Realty Company, John Ruan Foundation, Iowa Public Radio, Bankers Trust, the Patty & Jim Cownie Charitable Fund, Kum & Go, Meredith Corporation, Des Moines Area Community College and Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.
The DSM Book Festival is produced by the Greater Des Moines Partnership. Admission is free.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 24 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,400 Regional Business Members and more than 340 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.