The state’s premier literary event, the South Dakota Festival of Books, celebrated its 15th year Sept. 20-21 in Rapid City and Sept. 22-24 in Deadwood.

From iconic war writers to talented illustrators and a quirky “foodie” author, the 2017 South Dakota Festival of Books lineup is packed with talent.

In fall 1995, Michael Chabon was sitting pretty. He had three books to his credit, each more warmly received than the last.

Dirda is a literary journalist whose works have appeared in numerous publications. He has often been called the “best-read man in America.”

“That one photo is not indicative of a lot of my work,” photojournalist Robert Cohen said. “I’m not a war photographer. I’m a community journalist.”

The Council is planning a year-long celebration of the best in literature, drama, history, music, and journalism for communities around the state.

We share thirteen photos from the 2015 South Dakota Festival of Books in Deadwood.

Award-winning mystery author William Kent Krueger is finishing the final leg of his One Book SD author tour, culminating in a keynote appearance in Deadwood.