South Dakota Festival of Books to Spotlight Poetry & Environmental History Next Week
Spearfish, SD – The 23rd annual South Dakota Festival of Books begins next week, offering a diverse lineup of authors adn discussions. This year’s festival will feature both established and emerging voices, with a particular focus on the intersection of personal narrative, cultural heritage, and environmental stewardship.
The festival,hosted by the South Dakota Humanities Council,provides a vital platform for authors and readers to connect,fostering a deeper appreciation for literature and it’s role in shaping our understanding of the world.The event draws attendees from across the state and beyond, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of Spearfish and highlighting South Dakota’s rich literary landscape. This year’s program includes presentations from poet Marcella Remund and environmental author Peter Carrels, among others.
First up, the festival will showcase Marcella Remund, the current president of the South Dakota State Poetry Society. Remund’s latest collection, “Hysterian,” released this month, is one of four poetry collections she has authored. Her appearance will explore the power of poetry to document individual experiences and broader past narratives, and delve into the inspirations behind her newest work.
Later in the festival, attendees will hear from Peter Carrels, author of “Cascades of the Big Sioux River.” The book chronicles the natural and cultural history of Falls Park in Sioux Falls, detailing the forces that shaped the falls, the period of environmental degradation, and the eventual restoration led by activist Hazel O’Connor, a visionary mayor, and a city planner.Carrels’ presentation promises a compelling story of persistence and the transformative potential of community action.
