Ranch & Coast Magazine

NANCY WARWICK: PHOTO BY VINCENT KNAKAL Writing the Book(s) Local wordsmiths find community and support in a vibrant literary network W HEN ANASTASIA Zadeik steps up to the microphone at Warwick's bookstore in La Jolla this month, she will not only be reading from her just- released debut novel Blurred Fates — a gripping psychological thriller about love, loss, betrayal, and more — she will be joining a long list of writers who have come before her, from established literary lions to newer, best-selling authors. Zadeik (AKA Stacy Hipkins) says launching at the premier bookstore is like having a "stamp of authenticity," and indeed many local writers have ascended into the national spotlight after readings there. Warwick's has a storied reputation not only in La Jolla but far beyond as the oldest continuously owned and operated family bookstore in the country, now with Nancy Warwick, a fourth-generation bookseller, at the helm. e bookstore is so beloved that when it was about to lose its lease and its longtime home on Girard Avenue last year, a group of loyal friends and supporters bought the building and saved the store. Warwick's does much more than sell books, it helps to support writers, both nationally known and those just starting out. e bookstore has hosted thousands of authors over the years, often partnering with literary organizations to raise funds. "Community is very important!" exclaims Julie Slavinsky, Warwick's Director of Events. Warwick's provides "a venue for local authors to highlight their work," she says, especially through a program called "Weekends with Locals," two-hour table signings at the store as well as readings. Rancho Santa Fe author, essayist, and poet Sarah Sleeper launched her debut novel, Gaijin, two years ago with a virtual Q&A sponsored by Warwick's. "ey are an invaluable community resource," she recalls. She has since been invited back to interview other authors about their work. "I love doing it," she says. "It combines my journalism skills with my literary passion. It is so rewarding, and I love my advance research — reading great books!" 858.454.0347, warwicks.com Warwick's will also present e San Diego Writers Festival (SDWF) on October 8 in partnership with the Coronado Public Library and Performing Arts Complex and e San Diego Memoir Writers Association. Marni Freedman and Jeniffer ompson founded the free festival four years ago to showcase the work of talented writers, foster collaboration, and highlight diversity. is year's festival, titled "What Unites Us," is special, says Freedman, because it will be the first time the writing community has gathered in person for more than two years. e festival will feature dozes of live presentations from New York Times bestselling authors, experts in writing and publishing, performances, and "an agent pitch fest," says Freedman. e event also honors Renee Taylor, an actress and Academy Award-nominated screenwriter, and David Smith, BY ANDREA NAVERSEN Detour culture Nancy Warwick @ranchandcoast ranchandcoast.com 74 AUGUST 2022 RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE

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