The 30 authors featured in the book, along with the publication’s sponsors and illustrator Carol Delaney, will be honored. Contributing writers will have the opportunity to read their works during the open mic event, organizers said in a news release. Throughout the evening, songs and music will be provided by Mike Duncan and Steve Kurtz.
“The ‘Desert Voice’ is a literary landscape that matches our red rock home in wondrous vistas of visions, seeps of wisdom high up on a ledge, flakes of emotions littering a forgotten overhang – and all of it – words tumbling out – each into pools of stories, poems and pictures that you can hold in your hands – it’s magic!” said MP&W president, Tom Eyler.
“So what’s the use of being an English major if you can’t see your writing in print once in a while?” said board member Kathy Grossman. “That once in a while is the brilliant, artistic pages of the new ‘Desert Voice,’ blooming with the works of 29 other talented writers, illustrated by a wonderful artist, and celebrates my one-year anniversary as an enthusiastic Moab resident.”
Contributors of Desert Voice - Volume II will receive two free copies; more can be purchased for $10. A donation of $5 is requested to cover the cost of the appetizers, and dinner and beverages can be ordered off the menu, organizers said.
“Publishing ‘Desert Voice’ encourages writers and creates a writing family here in little old Moab,” said board member Diana Adams. “It allows people from all walks of life to bond with words.”
The ongoing efforts of local writers will also be available at the event’s display table, organizers said.
“These important contributions – books and collections of poetry and prose - will showcase their accomplishments,” MP&W officials said in the news release. “Everyone is welcome to exhibit his or her work, and the public is invited to share in the celebration.”