reading venues

The mission of the Hurston/Wright Foundation is to discover, educate, mentor, and develop African American writers. Named for literary geniuses Zora Neale Hurston and Richard Wright, the programs of the Foundation preserve this legacy and work to ensure the future of Black writers and the literature they produce. 

Nightbird Books is an independent bookstore featuring a wide variety of fiction, nonfiction, and children's books. It also host readings for local authors and provides access to book clubs and writing groups. Hours are 9 AM to 9 PM daily.

Founded in 2012, Page One Literary Center is a community-based nonprofit offering both one-day and multi-week creative writing workshops as well as several literary events. These events include an open mic night for adults and the Collaborative LiterARTi Series, which combines music, writing, and visual art. In the fall of 2013, Page One plans to offer affordable, quiet workspaces for writers.

Founded in 2010, Bent River Books & Music is an independent bookstore located in the historic Verde Valley of Arizona between Sedona and Jerome. While it offers a variety of both fiction and nonfiction, it also offers books on Arizona history, Southwestern Native American culture, anthropology, and earth-friendly living. Bent River hosts its own book club and also features creative writing workshops and readings by local authors. Hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 12 PM to 5 PM.