Writers In The Schools (WITS) Initiative

The Writers in the Schools (WITS) program is a key outreach initiative of the Six Bridges Book Festival. Presenting authors are invited to visit area schools to talk with students about the writing process and their work. Thanks to our generous WITS sponsors, students receive free books for their home libraries.

This initiative transcends the confines of traditional classrooms, making the magic of storytelling accessible to young minds.

This year’s participating authors are Myah Ariel, Vanessa Brantley-Newton, Kevin Brockmeier, Kamilah Cole, Eli Cranor, Alice Driver, Brian Fairbanks, Jen Fawkes, Marcela Fuentes, Robin Preiss Glasser, Jasmin Graham, Stephen Koch, Gwenna Laithland, Margot Livesey, Sally Nixon, Nate Powell, Santiago Jose Sanchez, Carrie Sun, Debbie Urbanski, Lana Williams, and Phillip B. Williams.

WITS is about more than just teaching writing skills. Students encounter diverse literary genres, styles, and voices, witnessing the creative process up close. Workshops and interactions with authors encourage them to explore their own creativity, fostering a lifelong love for writing and literature. The program instills confidence and self-expression, empowering students to share their unique stories with the world. It champions diversity and celebrates the transformative power of words.

Writers are often inspired by the imagination and passion of the young people they meet in Central Arkansas and report that their WITS visit was a highlight of their time in our community.

Made possible by Arkansas Arts Council; CALS Youth Programming; Riggs Benevolent Fund; Union Pacific; and Wright, Lindsey & Jennings LLP.