West Philadelphia native Nicole Rouse will serve as author ambassador at this year’s Philly Urban Book Festival. The signature event for writers of all levels will be held at Camphor Memorial Church starting at 10 a.m. on June 23.
Following a career as a classroom teacher and working as an editor in several positions, Rouse was presented with an opportunity to submit a few chapters of the novel she was writing. Months later, she secured a book deal and published her material as “Happily Ever Now.” That was in 2007.
Today, Rouse participates in literacy workshops and conferences throughout the country and always encourages other writers to push beyond their fears and follow their dreams.
“Any time I am asked to host an event, I am honored,” she said. “It is especially a blessing to be asked to host an event such as this in the city where I was born and raised.”
Rouse completed her fourth novel in October and continues to find time to give back.
“There were a number of people who have supported my journey, so it is always a blessing to be in a position to motivate and encourage others,” she said. “I have always been one to dream big, so I love to challenge others to dream big too.”
As the ambassador for this year’s event, Rouse plans to share her experiences and provide tips and encouragement for those who are interested in becoming writers.
The Philly Urban Book Festival promotes the joys of reading and honors the importance of the printed word. The event also showcases local and regional authors, booksellers and publishers.
The festival will include: author appearances and book signings; exhibitors and booksellers; cooking demonstrations by locals chefs; poetry readings; panel discussions; storytellers and hands-on projects for children; live music; and a variety of food presentations.
The festival will give writers the opportunity to meet and network with their peers in the industry.
Being a Christian writer is a way of life for Rouse. She embraces her Christian roots by writing real-life stories about everyday people in a way that provides entertainment. She challenges her readers to really think about the messages in the stories she authors.
“Writing Christian-fiction is just another avenue to spread and share God’s love and His word,” she said. “Being in a position to reach out to others, as well as being a part of a community, continually reminds me to stay focused and connected to God.”
The Philly Urban Book Festival is free and open to the public. To register, visit http://literacymomentbookfestival.eventbrite.com.
