What's your story?

By Elizabeth Campbell / March 6, 2010

Festival crowd enjoys the fine weather.

Photos: Saturday at the Festival
Photos: Sunday at the Festival
Photos: Add your best shots to the gallery

Whether you relish romance, are mad for mystery or fancy fiction, the Tucson Festival of Books has something for you!

The 2010 event is the sequel to last year's literary best seller featuring internationally known authors, life-changing books and hundreds of literary-themed activities. And it's all free — even the parking.

Meet the people behind the pages from John August, successful screenplay author, to Anthony Zinni, retired Marine general who's written two top-selling non-fiction books. Click on Authors A-Z to check out all 450 authors and presenters.

Maybe YOU want to be the author. You've got a bestseller gathering dust in your closet. A great idea for a screenplay. Or a yen to illustrate children's books. These topics and hundreds more are part of the exciting lineup of workshops, panel discussions, readings and activities for those interested in the business of writing.

Not a bookworm? There's still so much to do and see. Stroll through 200 exhibitors' booths. Indulge in great food from local vendors. Laugh with Jim Borgman and Jerry Scott, co-creators of the comic strip "Zits." Learn from the top minds in science, such as Dr. Gary Small ("The Memory Bible") and Dr. Hendrie Weisinger ("Nobody's Perfect").

Don't forget the kids — from toddlers to teens, the Festival has them covered. Little ones get to play with the characters from their favorite books, school-age children can watch a circus performance with a literary twist, and teens will enjoy authors such as Matt de la Pena ("Ball Don't Lie") and Frank Beddor ("The Looking Glass Wars").

Check for last-minute cancellations, additions and schedule changes »»

All Saturday and Sunday events are open to the public at no charge, and parking is free. Proceeds from the event support literacy organizations in Pima County.