Each year conference organizers choose a new theme to highlight and this year's topic, "Becoming a Writer – Seriously", seemed to resonate with attendees. During the Friday night kick-off, which featured a keynote presentation by writer Rick Najera, the small meeting room at the back of the library was full of burgeoning writers. "We had seventy-two registered attendees," confirmed conference Chair Doug Danielson.
For the first full day, participants were treated to seminars and panel discussions that touched on a broad range of topics including travel writing, humor, freelancing, and what editors and publishers are looking for. Day two's seminars focused on memoir and confession writing, and the formal part of the conference wrapped up with a feature presentation by "Rock, Paper, Tiger" author Lisa Brackmann.
This year's speakers – Michael Bracken, Lisa Brackmann, Sarah Cortez, Sunny Frazier, Susie Albin-Najera, and Rick Najera – offered a wealth of diverse experience and knowledge for writers looking for ways to make their voices heard.
The conference opened up to the public at the end of day two with BookFest, an event that brought together readers and writers, and raised funds for event host Biblioteca Los Mangos. With regular concerts, reading programs, art exhibitions and pet adoptions, the library is an essential community hub. Run entirely on donations, Los Mangos' finances are dependent on the community it serves. Thanks to the Puerto Vallarta Writers Conference for supporting this critical facility.
