StorySlam kicks off book festival

Sisters will kick off its rejuvenated Sisters Festival of Books on Friday, September 13, with a StorySlam event at The Belfry from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Organizers promise an evening of storytelling, poetry, and music. True five-minute stories based on the theme “Stranger than Fiction” will be shared by authors visiting for the festival — and by the members of the Sisters community. The public is invited to sign up to share a story. Interludes from local poets and musicians will be interspersed throughout the evening. You can purchase tickets to attend this event without signing up to share a story — just kick back and listen.

Storytellers who sign up to participate will be selected at random the night of the event and the audience will vote on their favorite stories. Prizes include Sisters Folk Festival tickets, a $150 gift card to Paulina Springs Books, and signed copies of books from authors that participated in the StorySlam.

If you would like to tell a story, visit http://www.sistersfob.org/storyslam to view guidelines, more details about the event, and to submit a sign-up form. Sign-ups are open until end of day Wednesday, September 11, or until the event sells out.

Drinks will be available at The Belfry’s bar throughout the evening. All ages are welcome at this event, but be aware that stories shared may contain adult or uncomfortable content.

The Belfry is located at 302 E. Main Ave. Tickets are available at http://www.sistersfob.org/storyslam.

The Sisters Festival of Books launched in 2019, then was put on hiatus due to COVID. This year marks its return. The festival will include author events and signings at Sisters Movie House, a Literary Banquet Author Dinner, a Small Press and Local Author Faire at Paulina Springs Books and Toriizaka Art, featuring over 15 small presses and local authors, and writing and publishing workshops. For information about the three-day Festival of Books, visit https://www.sistersfob.org.