LuAnn Cahn, award-winning television journalist, author and breast cancer survivor, will deliver the keynote speech at the 66th annual Philadelphia Writers’ Conference. The event will be held from June 6 to 8 at the Wyndham Hotel, Fourth and Arch streets.
Cahn wrote the inspirational memoir I Dare Me, which grew out of her blog One Year of Firsts chronicling the veteran journalist, mother and cancer survivor’s adventures as she pushed herself to try something new every day for a year. She embarked on this adventure while continuing to work full time.
In addition, the opening session speaker will be author William Lasher, creator of the New York Times bestselling mystery novels featuring the compelling character Victor Carl. Under the pen name Tyler Knox, Lasher has also written the acclaimed novel Kockroach and numerous book reviews for Washington Post Book World.
The conference features several three-day workshops with topics including poetry, memoir, novel, journalism, humor, screenwriting, short story and nonfiction, along with numerous additional seminars presented by leading figures in the industry. Participants will have the opportunity to meet book agents and editors, and take part in a “social media boot camp.” There will be manuscript raps, new manuscript contests, a writers resource table, book fair, awards banquet and buffet dinner.
The conference typically draws 150 to 200 participants from the Philadelphia area and across the country. Beginners and experienced writers are equally welcome. The cost is $240, not including the optional Friday buffet and Saturday banquet. Intensive two-day master classes are available for an additional $50 fee. To register, visit www.pwcwriters.org or email to [email protected]. Those without web access may write to registrar Jim Knipp at 624 Hunter St., Gloucester City, NJ 08030. ••