The Heartland Experience, a national literary event, will bring nationally acclaimed authors to Homestead National Monument May 6. In partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the goal of this event is to provide visitors an opportunity to better understand how the Heartland provides inspiration that provoke stories and experiences which binds people together. In response to a NEA survey, Reading At Risk: A Survey of Literary Reading in America, literary reading is in dramatic decline, with fewer than half of American adults now reading literature. This event will serve to promote the exploration of literature by bringing literary scholars and nationally known authors to Homestead National Monument to discuss the significance of works by Willa Cather, readings by contemporary writers and activities to inspire children. "We are excited to be working with the National Endowment for the Arts to host this literary event. There are so many connections found in literature that are based in the Heartland that resonate strongly," said Mark Engler, superintendent of Homestead National Monument. Some of the authors scheduled to appear are Percival Everett, author of fifteen books to include God's Country a wickedly funny rewrite of the Great American western. Ivan Doig, who is a grandson of homesteaders, has written several books with a setting featuring a homesteading background including Dancing at the Rascal Fair and Bucking the Sun. U.S. Poet Laureate, Ted Kooser will be keynote speaker at a dinner reception at the May 6 event. The reception is presented in partnership with Southeast Community College in Beatrice and will have a $15.00 fee for the meal. For more information about this event contact Homestead National Monument of America at 402-223-3514 or visit on-line at www.nps.gov. The park is located 4 miles west of Beatrice on State Highway 4. Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.
