Authors to Explore Black Literature at 40th Annual Key West Literary Seminar

This January 12-15, the 40th Annual Key West Literary Seminar will bring together some of the most renowned contemporary authors, poets, journalists, and scholars to explore Black literature and African-American literary history. Held at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Truman Waterfront Park, the seminar offers an intimate atmosphere for attendees to interact, exchange ideas, and learn more about the growing genre of Black literature.

Highlighting some of the most groundbreaking authors, the seminar will feature keynote speaker Kevin Young, who is the poetry editor of the New Yorker and director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. In addition, the event will include Annette Gordon-Reed, author of books exploring Thomas Jefferson’s controversial relationship with Sally Hemings, Tayari Jones, author of the New York Times bestselling novel “An American Marriage,” and Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Jericho Brown.

Attendees will be able to take part in solo and group discussions, lectures, readings, book signings, receptions, and performances by the Ambassador Chorale from Florida Memorial University. There are also guided walking tours that showcase Key West’s rich literary heritage, as well as evening cocktail gatherings and a special reception to celebrate the seminar’s 40th anniversary.

Advance registration is required to attend the full seminar and is available online at kwls.org/seminar/. The fee of $675 per person includes admission to all onstage events, the opening reception, and social activities. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore and celebrate Black literature!

Seminar information and schedule: kwls.org