McMurtry tribute planned for Boerne Book Festival

McMurtry tribute planned for Boerne Book Festival

“Pastures of the Empty Page: Fellow Writers on the Life and Legacy of Larry McMurtry” is a treasure of a book, recently published by UT Press. It’s edited by George Getschow, who runs the Archer City Writers Workshop.

The book is divided into different chapters based on how each contributing writer was influenced by Larry McMurtry. Bestselling author Stephen Harrigan writes about the legacy of McMurtry. San Antonio author Sherry Kafka Wagner writes in the “Collaborators & Confidants” section. Author and journalist Doug J. Swanson writes about McMurtry as a “Myth Buster & Myth Maker.” There are so many good pieces of writing within this book, it will make a great gift for anyone who’s a fan of the legendary author.

Join us for our final program at the 2023 Boerne Book Festival on Saturday, October 7, at 2:30 p.m., as we present a discussion around “Pastures of the Empty Page.” In addition to the above contributing authors mentioned, W.K. “Kip” Stratton will also be on hand for this program. He’s the author of many books including “The Wild Bunch: Sam Peckinpah, a Revolution in Hollywood, and the Making of a Legendary Film.” There will be five writers in total discussing this new book, and you’ll have the chance to meet them and get a book signed by all five while at this program.

Bending Branch Winery is partnering with us once again this year. They will be on hand for the McMurtry tribute to give out samplings of wine and bourbon to attendees at this event. The tastings are for those over 21.

If you’d like a preview of the McMurtry book, stop by the library through October 7 and have a look at our gallery. There are images from the book and words from some of the contributors, along the gallery walls.

Another program you don’t want to miss at this year’s book festival is an interview with naturalist and Mason resident, David Hillis. His new book is “Armadillos to Ziziphus: A Naturalist in the Texas Hill Country” and is also published by UT Press. This book was written for new residents of our area of the state, as well as long- time residents. Hillis will be interviewed by Paul Barwick, Special Projects Director for the City of Boerne. This discussion will be at 12:30 p.m., at the panel discussion tent at Main Plaza.

We hope you can join us at this year’s Boerne Book Festival. Many sponsors and volunteers have put in hours, support, and love for this festival to create a nice program for the residents of Kendall County and beyond. The fun begins at 9:30 a.m., and you can pick up a schedule at the library or look online at www.boernebookfest. com.

CAREN CREECH

BOERNE PUBLIC LIBRARY