A passion for reading and writing is something that, if cultivated early, will enrich your child for a lifetime. The events below offer something for everyone, from little bookworms to reluctant readers, budding writers to published poets.

Greater St. Louis Book Fair
April 29-May 2
Macy’s at West County Center
314-993-1995
www.stlouisbookfair.org
The mecca for lovers of all things literary, hundreds of thousands of used books, comics, vintage magazines and other treasures are for sale beyond bargain prices. Books of every genre, from picture books to sci-fi novels, are ripe for browsing at this family-friendly affair. And with most items falling between $1 and $5, even your littlest reader can take home something special. Proceeds benefit education and literacy programs for underserved individuals in the St. Louis metropolitan area. The event is free, except for opening night (April 29), which requires a $10 charitable donation.

31st Annual St. Louis Storytelling Festival
April 28-May 1
Various locations, including Laumeier Sculpture Park, The Missouri History Museum, Blanchette Park and Faust Park. Call or visit the web site below for more specific info on dates, time and venue.
314-516-6590
stlstorytellingfestival.org
The foundation for any literary effort worth its salt is a good story. Hear stories come alive with the help of nearly 50 professional storytellers, who will converge in St. Louis for this decades-old four-day festival. The event is coordinated by Continuing Education and the College of Fine Arts and Communication at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Festival events are free and open to the public.

Saturdays at the Studio Writing Workshops
Saturdays through April 24
StudioSTL, A Literary Arts Center for Students & Community
Centene Center for Arts and Education
3547 Olive Street, Suite 300, St. Louis
314-289-4080
studiostl.org
Have a budding writer in the family? This nonprofit literary arts center hosts free writing workshops for children ages 6 to 18. Topics include travel writing, kids’ books, songwriting, even resume writing! The goal is to help writers of all ages find and celebrate their inner voice. Registration is required.

St. Louis Poetry Center’s 51st Annual Poetry Concert
May 16
The Duane Reed Gallery
4729 McPherson Ave., St. Louis
314-973-0616
www.stlouispoetrycenter.org
Consider bringing your poetic high-schoolers to this annual reading by award-winning poets—including some still in high school. They’ll be amazed how poetry comes alive when read aloud by the author. The event is free and a reception follows the reading.

The Public Libraries
Public libraries are amazing local literary resources. Most offer readings by famous authors, lively discussions, reading recommendations and even incentive programs with great prizes for reluctant readers. With dozens of branches in St. Louis City and St. Louis County, each with a calendar chock-full of fun reading events, you’re sure to find something for every reader in the family. Teen programs are also available.
City branches
County branches

After living and writing in St. Louis for almost 15 years, Meredith Boggess has plenty of good things to share about her adopted hometown. She and her husband recently welcomed their first daughter into their home on The Hill, and, despite the sleepless nights, they are still awash in that new parent glow. Contact Meredith at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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