APRIL 2, 2024
Rockville, MD – The F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Festival is delighted to unveil an exceptional lineup of talent for its 2024 event, centered around the theme “Writing the Hard Stories.” This year’s Festival promises to be an inspiring and thought-provoking celebration of literature, featuring live readings, workshops, and discussions led by some of the most distinguished voices in American letters.
“We are thrilled to welcome such a diverse and talented group of writers to this year’s Festival,” said Gary Berg-Cross, President of the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference, Inc. “Through their work, they confront the complexities of our world with courage and insight, embodying the spirit of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s commitment to literary excellence.”
Jesmyn Ward to Receive the 2024 Fitzgerald Award
The highlight of the Festival will be the presentation of the prestigious Fitzgerald Award for Achievement in American Literature to Jesmyn Ward. A two-time winner of the National Book Award for Fiction and a MacArthur Fellow, Ward’s exploration of the American South has captivated readers worldwide. Her presence at the Festival will undoubtedly enrich the literary dialogue and inspire aspiring writers.
Joining Jesmyn Ward as special guests celebrating the theme “Writing the Hard Stories” are:
David Ignatius
Pulitzer Prize-nominated journalist and acclaimed novelist David Ignatius will deliver the keynote talk, offering insights into the importance of storytelling in confronting brutal truths and navigating the complexities of contemporary society.
Kiese Laymon
Renowned writer and professor Kiese Laymon, as special invited guest, will share his unique perspective on writing to grapple with personal and societal challenges. He will encourage attendees to embrace vulnerability and authenticity in their own creative endeavors.
One of the festival’s founders and former conference president, Jackson R. Bryer, stated, “In a time when storytelling has never been more vital, it is an honor to celebrate writers who fearlessly tackle the hard stories. Their voices remind us of the power of literature to illuminate human experience and provoke meaningful dialogue.”
The 2024 F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Festival promises to be a memorable and enriching experience for literature enthusiasts, writers, and scholars alike. Members of the media are invited to attend and cover this exciting event.