11/07/2025
Townships Book Fest 2025 – A Celebration of Local Literary Talent
Saturday, November 22, 2025 | 10 AM – 4 PM | Hope Community Church, Lennoxville
The Eastern Townships are rich in stories, voices, and creativity – and on Saturday, November 22, 2025, more than 35 local English-language authors will gather under one roof for the third annual Townships Book Fest. Hosted at Hope Community Church in Lennoxville, the one-day event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., welcoming readers of all ages to connect with local writers, browse new titles, and enjoy a festive celebration of community storytelling.
Organized by the Bibliothèque Lennoxville Library, Black Cat Books, the Townships Sun, Townshippers’ Association, and the Shoreline Press, with support from the Townshippers’ Research & Cultural Foundation, Marianne Dandurand, MP (Compton-Stanstead), and Geneviève Hébert, MNA (Saint-François), the festival has quickly grown into a must-attend cultural gathering. What began as a modest showcase has now become a cornerstone for English-language literature in the Townships, spotlighting a remarkable range of established and emerging voices.
A Lively Celebration of Books and Community
The festival will feature author presentations throughout the day, book signings, and the chance to purchase works directly from the people who wrote them. Visitors can look forward to a holiday-style marketplace atmosphere, complete with live entertainment and food. A.M. Bistro will be catering the event, offering fresh local fare for purchase to keep festival-goers energized as they browse and mingle.
Adding to the festive spirit, local musician Emmett Tinning will perform live music throughout the day. At 11 a.m., audiences will be treated to a special performance by the beloved local octet Eigh't Misbehavin’, who will share seasonal and other a ca****la choral pieces to mark the season.
Authors in the Spotlight
With more than 35 writers confirmed, the author list reflects the diversity and depth of storytelling in the region. Among those attending are well-known names such as Louise Abbott, Maurice Crossfield, Ann Scowcroft, Ross Murray, and Derek Webster, alongside newer voices like Kira Nightingale, Josh Quirion, and Bethany Rothney-Audit. Writers span genres from poetry and fiction to history, memoir, and children’s literature, ensuring there is something to spark every reader’s imagination.
The festival will also highlight the academic contributions of Bishop’s University professors, who will present some of their latest publications and research works. Their presence underscores the strong ties between the university and the broader Townships literary community.
Festival-goers will also have the chance to meet community journalists and local chroniclers whose work has helped preserve Townships stories. The event promises not only a celebration of books but also of the people who bring the region’s culture and identity to life through words.
Basic Schedule of the Day
• 10:00 a.m. – Opening remarks by Mme Marianne Dandurand, Compton–Stanstead MP, followed by book browsing and the first round of author presentations
• 11:00 a.m. – Special performance by Eight Misbehavin (seasonal and a ca****la choral pieces)
• 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Ongoing author roundtable discussion, signings, and book sales; live music by Emmett Tinning; lunch available from A.M. Bistro
• 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Afternoon presentations, readings, and children’s story sessions
• 4:00 p.m. – Festival close
Building Bridges Between Readers and Writers
“Book Fest is about more than just picking up a new novel or having a copy signed,” said event organizer Christian Collins. “It’s about readers and writers meeting face-to-face, about building bridges in our community, and about celebrating the unique voices that call the Townships home.”
This year’s edition will once again highlight the growing network of English-language authors in the region, many of whom are part of small presses or self-publishing ventures. By providing them with a platform, the festival strengthens the literary fabric of the Townships while offering readers a chance to discover stories that reflect their own communities.
Everyone is Welcome
The festival is open to all – whether you’re a lifelong book lover, a curious newcomer, or a young reader just beginning to explore stories. Children, families, and seniors alike will find something to enjoy, from lively presentations to the simple joy of flipping through a freshly printed book.
For authors, the day provides an unparalleled chance to meet readers directly, gain feedback, and exchange ideas with fellow writers. Organizers encourage any local writers not yet involved to reach out about participating in future editions.
Event Details at a Glance
• What: Townships Book Fest 2025 – Celebrate Local Literary Talent
• When: Saturday, November 22, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Where: Hope Community Church, 102 Queen Street, Lennoxville (Sherbrooke)
• Who: More than 35 local English-language authors
• Features: Author presentations, Bishop’s University professor showcases, signings, food by A.M. Bistro (for purchase), live music by Emmett Tinning, and a special choral performance by Eight Misbehavin
• Admission: Free and open to the public
At this year’s festival, Mme Marianne Dandurand, Compton–Stanstead MP, will be attending as an honorary guest and opening the event at 10 a.m. She emphasized the importance of celebrating local creativity:
“The Townships Book Fest is an opportunity to discover the local talent growing within our community. I look forward to learning more about the voices shaping our literary landscape, and to sharing in a day that brings readers and writers together in such a meaningful way.”
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