UPEI professors to read at Pen & Inkling Festival this weekend

This three-day, three-county event will celebrate Island writers through the Island Literary Awards ceremony, a conversation about poetry between John Smith and David Helwig, a book launch of Brent MacLaine's new book, workshops, special guest readings, open mic events (including readings by newcomers in their first language), a songwriter's circle by young musicians, zen writing and sketching, writing games, book sales, a big, birthday party with live music (courtesy of The Count and the Cuban Cocktail and The Blueprints), and, of course, libations!

During the festival, the Writers' Guild will launch "The Figure in the Landscape" calendar, featuring poems and prose by Island writers and images of Island writers photographed by well-known photographer John Sylvester.

The festival is dedicated to poet and educator Frank Ledwell, and is supported by sponsors, individuals and the Department of Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour.

Go to the festival's website for a detailed schedule or contact Pen & Inkling Festival Coordinator Laurel Smyth at islandliteraryawards@gmail.com.