Free 21st Annual Jambalaya Writers’ Conference
HOUMA, La. (press release) – The Terrebonne Parish Library System invites writers, readers and literary enthusiasts to attend the free 21st Annual Jambalaya Writers’ Conference on Saturday, April 25, at the Terrebonne Parish Main Library (151 Library Dr. in Houma).
Celebrating more than two decades of inspiring creativity, the Jambalaya Writers’ Conference brings together aspiring and established writers for a full day of panels, workshops and networking opportunities with authors, publishing professionals and industry experts.
Writers and readers of all experience levels are encouraged to attend this free event.
Organizers share that the conference continues its mission to promote the literary arts and support the creative community in Terrebonne Parish and beyond.
Registration for the Jambalaya Writers’ Conference begins at 8:30 a.m., with programming continuing throughout the day.
Jambalaya Writers’ Conference Event Details
Keynote Speaker
This year’s keynote speaker for the conference is Mary H. Manhein, a renowned forensic anthropologist and the creator and retired director of the LSU Forensic Anthropology and Computer Enhancement Services (FACES) Laboratory.
Manhein has authored multiple books based on her casework and has lectured internationally, including at Scotland Yard. Her latest work, “A Call to Rowan,” is a mystery novella set in 1950’s rural North Louisiana.
Manhein will deliver the keynote address for the Jambalaya Writers’ Conference at 3:45 p.m.
Professional Feedback
A highlight of the conference is the popular First Page Blind Auditions, now expanded to 90 minutes. Participants can submit the first page of a manuscript, poem or other written work for anonymous critique by a panel of professionals.
Submissions will be read aloud by the library director and evaluated in real time, offering valuable feedback in a supportive, low-risk environment.
Jambalaya Writers’ Conference Sessions
Throughout the conference, attendees can choose from concurrent sessions focused on three key tracks: Genre, Business and Craft of Writing. Topics include:
- Cookbook writing
- Literary agents
- Science fiction prompts
- Co-authoring
- Poetry techniques
- Traditional publishing
- Fantasy world-building
Authors will also be available for book signings following each session.
Other Details
In addition to educational sessions, the conference will feature local food trucks, including Blended Bean, NadieB’s and Ms. Tweet’s Home Cooking, as well as book sales and vendors such as Cavalier House Books and Bayou Girl Custom Designs, LLC.
The Jambalaya Writers’ Conference is made possible through the support of the Friends of the Terrebonne Parish Library, Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the State of Louisiana, Explore Houma and the Bayou Regional Arts Council.
