Youth & Family Village: Bringing Our Stories to Life

The WOW Lit Fest isn’t just a celebration of literature—it’s a full sensory experience that welcomes every member of the family. And this year, our Youth & Family Village is taking that vision to the next level.

Curated and hosted by the incredible team at Brown Books and Paintbrushes, this vibrant area is a love letter to children, families, and storytelling in all its forms. Titled "Bringing Our Stories to Life," the Youth & Family Village is a joyful, hands-on space where books, art, music, and movement unite to create magic.

What to Expect

In the Youth & Family Village, families can dive into interactive activities designed to spark creativity, build connection, and celebrate culture. Here are just a few of the amazing experiences waiting for you:

• Illustration Studio with London Ladd: Young artists will paint portraits and collage their dreams, guided by award-winning illustrator London Ladd. It’s an immersive experience that turns imagination into masterpieces.

• The “Crossover” Station by Kwame Alexander: Combining basketball and poetry, this unique activation invites kids to build a community poem while dribbling, dreaming, and discovering the rhythm of their own stories.

• Family History Quilt with James & Lesa Cline-Ransome: Families will trace their lineage, reflect on their roots, and create a collective quilt—a meaningful memento of identity, legacy, and unity.

• Honoring Nikki Giovanni: Celebrate the life and work of legendary poet Nikki Giovanni through creative play, quiet reflection, and heartfelt storytelling.

• And so much more! From movement workshops to interactive read-alouds, every corner of this space is built with purpose, play, and presence.

Why It Matters

This isn’t just a festival—it’s a cultural and literary experience rooted in representation, joy, and creativity. The Youth & Family Village is a powerful reminder that children deserve to see themselves in stories, to express themselves freely, and to explore who they are through art, language, and movement.

So grab your little ones, bring your curiosity, and join us in a space that’s just as brilliant, bold, and boundless as their imaginations.

Location: Youth & Family Area at WOW Lit Fest

Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025

Time: 11 AM – 6 PM

All ages welcome.