Sinclair Lewis 2009 writers conference

One of the longest-running, most respected writers' conferences in Minnesota is back in Sauk Centre for its 20th year. The conference has attracted such renowned keynote speakers as Frederick Manfred, Robert Bly, Jon Hassler, Carol Bly, Douglas Wood, Leif Enger, Bill Holm and Gary Paulsen. This year's keynote speaker is Will Weaver, award winning novelist and short story writer. Weaver will be joined by three other professional writers who will share their writing and marketing expertise:

William Kent Krueger will speak about how to use suspense.

Wang Ping will discuss how to write short stories.

Daniel Slager will talk about the future of books.

The day-long gathering will again look at the process of writing as well as selling what you write. The conference is on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2009 at the Sauk Centre High School auditorium. Cost includes lunch, breaks and a reception following at the Palmer House Hotel. College students and senior citizens may register at a reduced cost; high school students may attend for free, but must pay a small fee for lunch and breaks.

Both beginning and established writers are invited to attend the conference. Participants will have the chance to hear three different presentations, the keynote talk and a panel discussion during the day.

The conference is hosted by the Sinclair Lewis Foundation and Sauk Centre Community Education.

If you'd like to attend, make your check payable to "Sinclair Lewis Writers Conference" and mail it to Jim Umhoefer; 13 S. 7th Street; Sauk Centre, MN 56378. For conference details, go to www.saukherald. com/ftp/writers or call Jim Umhoefer at 320- 352-2735 (evenings).

Contact Jim Umhoefer to arrange an interview with any of the presenters.