LitFest in the Dena 2024 Explores Literature’s Influence on Neighborhood Identity

Discover the profound impact of literature on neighborhood identity at LitFest in the Dena 2024, where the theme “Books that made the Neighborhood” takes center stage. Through discussions and readings, attendees will delve into the ways in which neighborhoods shape narratives and perceptions, fostering a deeper understanding of community dynamics.

Against the backdrop of the historic Mountain View Mausoleum, LitFest in the Dena 2024’s theme is “Books that made the Neighborhood” and continues the LitFest tradition of celebrating writers and book lovers from diverse backgrounds and genres. Over 200 authors are expected to participate alongside several thousand attendees.

Last year’s gathering witnessed impassioned discussions on books that changed the world, reflecting the event’s commitment to fostering dialogue and connection through literature.

“Neighborhoods, whether real or fictitious, conventional or boundless, changing for better or worse, bestow an identity; give us a way of seeing things – a way of seeing the world. It’s more than a collection of houses on a network of streets,” the organizers said in a statement on the event website. “A neighborhood could be defined as a collection of people with unique experiences, conditions and desires, who together form something bigger and deeply affecting.”

The theme is a statement of the important role that literature plays in shaping a sense of place and community. Through discussions and readings, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the ways in which neighborhoods bestow identity and offer unique perspectives on the world.

The festival lineup boasts a diverse array of authors representing various community sectors and backgrounds. Panel discussions, workshops, readings, and other literary activities will engage attendees throughout the weekend. Of particular note is the inclusion of libraries and bookstores as participants in panel discussions for the first time.

An opening night reception on Friday, May 3, will feature a conversation with Nikki High, founder of Octavia’s Bookshelf, dedicated to science fiction writer Octavia Butler. This special event sets the tone for a weekend of insightful discussions and literary exploration.

Highlighted programs include discussions on BIPOC writers and their L.A. stories, poetry of unseen boroughs, and the search for community in Southern California neighborhoods. The festival will also feature workshops exploring the influence of literature on songwriting, the love of horror, and cruising the gayborhood.

In addition to author discussions, the festival will include presentations by local bookstores that contribute to the fabric of their neighborhoods, further emphasizing the theme of community and literary engagement.

Sunday’s closing panel, moderated by Dr. Thomas E. Backer, President of the Human Interaction Research Institute, will reflect on the weekend’s discussions and insights, offering attendees a chance to synthesize their experiences and takeaways from the event.

LitFest in the Dena 2024 is supported by partners and sponsors, including Red Hen Press, Omega Sci-Fi Project, Locavore Lit, SoCal News Group, North Figueroa Books, and the Mountain View Mausoleum.

For a complete schedule of events, visit https://litfestinthedena.org/schedule/.

Free parking is available at the Mountain View Mausoleum throughout the weekend.