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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 03/09/2026

September Staff Picks are here! Check out all of the books by authors featured in upcoming programs and podcasts, plus all of the AWM staff's favorite finds. Whether it's music, TV, or something to read, we've got you covered! Check out the list here >> t.co/pFCNyi12Yt t.co/r1EuK6NKze

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 15/07/2026

Join New Trier Multifaith Alliance & the AWM at the Baha’i temple on July 26 from 2-3:30 for a FREE discussion based on our exhibit, American Prophets. AWM President Carey Cranston and a panel of authors explore the profound ways writing reflects and influences our understanding of religion.

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 07/07/2026

At Get Lit tomorrow, join us for a special reading of the Declaration of Independence! Ft. Cortney Hall, NBC5 Host; Tyra Martin, WGN TV Producer & Digital Host; @shiakapos.bsky.social POLITICO Reporter; Rufus Williams, WVON 1690AM Host; LeeAnn Trotter, Journalist & former NBC5 Reporter

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 18/06/2026

Our new pop-up exhibit is here! This special exhibit includes an 1823 William Stone print of the Declaration of Independence, along with a 1776 British first edition of Thomas Paine's Common Sense. Visit the AWM today to see Declarations: 250 Years of Writing Toward Independence!

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 17/06/2026

Will you be joining us at ALA Annual Conference June 26-29? Stop by the AWM at booth #2030 and say hello, we can't wait to see you!

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 05/06/2026

This Sunday, bestselling author, podcaster, speaker, and advocate Jen Hatmaker talks about her faith journey, God and politics today, and finding hope in difficult times. Hatmaker will be interviewed by AWM President Carey Cranston. Don't miss out, visit the American Writers Festival this weekend!

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 02/06/2026

For all poetry fans, plan out your time at the American Writers Festival with this handy guide to all of our poetry-themed programming! Featuring @shortpoemz.bsky.social, Mayda Del Valle, Maggie Smith, and Eve Ewing

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 26/05/2026

Interested in a behind-the-scenes look at writing craft? We've got you covered! On June 7, at 1PM, get the inside scoop on ghostwriting from @lisawritesbooks.bsky.social; then, at 2PM, learn how authors write across different mediums with Zakiya Dalilah Harris and Angela Nissel.

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 22/05/2026

Join us at the American Writers Fest 2026 for a conversation about writing short stories with three-time National Book Award finalist Lauren Groff & John Stauffer, editor of the "American Short Story" anthology, moderated by author and professor Peter Coviello.

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 21/05/2026

Author Talks is back & better than ever with Li'l Sebastian's big podcast! Pop culture historian Jennifer Keishin Armstrong discusses her latest book, "Parks and Rec: The Underdog TV Show That Lit’rally Inspired a Vision for a Better America." Listen here! americanwritersmuseum.org/podcast/epis...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 21/05/2026

A lawyer, a model, & a news anchor walk into a…panel discussion about their recent memoirs! Join attorney Walter Pryor, former model Sarah Hartshorne, & television journalist Bill Kurtis for a conversation moderated by book critic & Editor-in-Chief at Booklist Donna Seaman.

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 19/05/2026

Excited about this year's American Writers Festival? So are we, and so is author Brian Morra! 📚

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 17/05/2026

#AWFest2026 Highlight: On June 6, Brian J. Morra is joined by fellow writer and AWM Trustee Joanne Leedom-Ackerman to discuss the process of turning real-life events into thrilling plot and action.

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 15/05/2026

In celebration of AAPI Heritage month, read our guide to AAPI writers at the 2026 American Writers Festival next month! We've got programs for sci-fi lovers, history buffs, and even kids, so be sure to check out the whole list!

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 12/05/2026

We are seeking a friendly, energetic Storyteller to join our team at the museum's front desk. The Storyteller is responsible for providing exceptional service to our visitors. The position is part-time, starting rate $18/hour. Learn more & apply! americanwritersmuseum.org/about/join-o...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 06/05/2026

The first program of this year's American Writers Festival will take place at the AWM! Join us for a live reading of the critically acclaimed new play, The Last Senior Home in Bronzeville by Nikki Carpenter, a timely story of resistance and resilience.

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 05/05/2026

This year's American Writers Festival is just over a month away! The 2026 festival will be bigger and better than ever, featuring 80+ writers and 40+ panels over TWO days of programming! Find out more and plan your festival weekend here hubs.ly/Q04frF_p0

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 23/03/2026

Announcing our 2026 American Writers Festival! This year, we're expanding to two days, June 6-7, offering even more to discover! Headliners include Lauren Groff, Reza Aslan, John Fugelsang, Maggie Smith, Tananarive Due, Bill Kurtis, and Mayda del Valle. Learn more at americanwritersfestival.org

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 23/03/2026

A message from our friends at the Science Fiction and Fantasy Association! Celebrate the work of N.K. Jemisin at the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association 61st Nebula Awards Conference happening June 3 to 7th. Learn more and register here: store.sfwa.org/nebula-confe...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 05/03/2026

KOVAL Comedy highlights Chicago comics and gives back to local nonprofits, and this month, ticket sales benefit the American Writers Museum! March 20, visit Koval's Distillery to enjoy Chicago comics Julio Ortiz, Megan McMurtry, & John McCombs! Details at www.facebook.com/share/18Drar...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 04/03/2026

This Women’s History Month, your gift to the American Writers Museum helps keep world‑changing words alive and sparks the next generation to pick up the pen. Donate here! secure.qgiv.com/for/spring20...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 03/03/2026

The AWM is proud to serve as a partner of Illinois America 250, the statewide commemoration of America's 250th anniversary. We're kicking off our celebrations by highlighting this year's Student Writing Competition prompt! Learn more at americanwritersmuseum.org/writing-comp...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 26/02/2026

We're highlighting another author featured in American Prophets in honor of Black History Month! Today, we celebrate Octavia E. Butler, a visionary writer who reimagined prophecy through science fiction. Learn more about Butler and Parable of the Sower in the sci-fi section of American Prophets!

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 02/02/2026

The AWM joins the rest of the Chicago literary community in mourning the loss of President & CEO of the Chicago Public Library Foundation, Brenda Langstraat Bui. Brenda was an integral part of the community, and her loss has been profoundly felt; our hearts are with her family and loved ones.

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 30/01/2026

Find more info on battling censorship on our resource page americanwritersmuseum.org/resources-to...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 22/01/2026

The American Writers Museum will be closed tomorrow, Friday, January 23 due to extreme cold temperatures. Stay warm, everyone!

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 16/12/2025

How many artifacts are in the American Prophets exhibit? Hard to say… at least 6–7. 😏 Come see them for yourself—American Prophets is open now at the American Writers Museum. 🎟️ Get tickets at awmamericanprophets.org

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 11/12/2025

Need a new book to read or show to binge? How about a new album to listen to on your commute? No matter what you're looking for, our December Staff Picks have got you covered! Find something new to read, watch, or listen to this month on our blog! americanwritersmuseum.org/awm-staff-pi...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 05/12/2025

Give a teacher the gift of membership this holiday season! Celebrate the teachers in your life who make a difference with an AWM Educator Membership—now 50% off for a limited time! secure.qgiv.com/for/educator...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 26/11/2025

“Stories keep our people alive.” –Brad Wagnon (Cherokee Nation) Storyteller & author Brad Wagnon preserves Cherokee history and values through his books and teachings. Explore his reflections on faith, identity, and storytelling in American Prophets — now open at the AWM!

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 20/11/2025

Happy Birthday, Pauli Murray! Explore Murray’s legacy in American Prophets, where their writings and personal reflections reveal how faith and activism can work hand in hand toward equality. Get tickets to American Prophets today! awmamericanprophets.org

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 19/11/2025

Make sure you get your tickets for next week's event, featuring Alan Light and @ryanarnoldrocks! In DON'T STOP, Light investigates what keep "Rumours" by Fleetwood Mac at the forefront of pop culture, from Glee to Saturday Night Live to Daisy Jones & the Six. www.eventbrite.com/e/spirituali...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 18/11/2025

American Prophets opens Nov 24 at the American Writers Museum. Across generations, writers used words to question, believe, and reimagine what America could be. Buy tickets here! awmamericanprophets.org

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 17/11/2025

Definition: A prophet is someone who uses their voice to reveal truth, challenge norms, and inspire change. The writers in American Prophets did just that: using words to shape culture, wrestle with faith, and reimagine what America could be. americanwritersmuseum.org/american-pro...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 13/11/2025

Looking for gifts this holiday season? How about an AWM Membership! Whether you're an avid museum goer, a student, a writer, or a book lover, we've got a membership level that will suit anyone. Learn more about what each level has to offer on our website! americanwritersmuseum.org/join-give/me...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 11/11/2025

Our November Staff Picks are here! Take a look to see what we've been loving this month, and let us know what's on your list in the replies! Check out the full list here: americanwritersmuseum.org/awm-staff-pi...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 06/11/2025

Hear all about our upcoming American Prophets program on Thomas A. Tweed's new book, Religion in the Lands that Became America, straight from Tweed's fellow Indigenous Studies scholar John Low! Get tickets to the event here: www.eventbrite.com/e/american-p...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 01/10/2025

Jane Goodall, 1934 - 2025 We are saddened to learn of the passing of primatologist Jane Goodall. Goodall was the author of numerous books on conservation, zoology, & of course, chimpanzees. She was an unwavering activist for the natural world & will be deeply missed. #JaneGoodall

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 29/09/2025

At our recent OnWord celebration, we honored 2 past winners of the John Estey Student Writing Competition, a key component of our Write In youth education program. Please consider a tax-deductible gift to support this important program! secure.qgiv.com/for/fallfund...

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

Sienna Wong, Dilworth Elementary, California. “Crossovers are the next step, I build up speed and show some pep, Sometimes my head says no no But the ice is not my foe Hard work and practice are my friends I dream gold medals meet me at the end"

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

Shira Kerchner, Beverly Farms Elementary School, Maryland. “I awoke to the sound of birds chirping outside of my window and sunlight pouring through my sheer blinds. I pulled my covers up and stepped out of bed, unexcited for the day to come. I had dreamt of my wish finally coming true...”

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

Samarth Agarwal, Thomas G. Scullen Middle School, Illinois. “Fight like a Spartan,’ Mama always said. And so I do. Every cracked step. Every rejection. Every page I write is another oar in the water. A stroke of will. A push towards the waters of invisible rebellion against fate.”

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

Lexie Lin, Sydney Girls High School, Australia. “He wrote about the sweet taste of his wife’s tea. The sound of Lucy’s seraphic laughter. The warmth of sunlight through the laundry. The colour of the fence he’d once painted with too much pride..."

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

Faith Ducksworth, Krimmel Intermediate School, Texas. “How do you know when you're in love with someone? she asked me. To which I responded: When your thoughts connect them to every season, when you begin to hear them in your dreams...”

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

Edward Lee, Bergen County Academies, New Jersey. “That’s what Olena and I did: we remained. We returned. And each return built something. Not dramatic, not perfect—but undeniably real. There’s no certificate for what we did. No transcript, no final project. Just one voice...”

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

Asmi Tyagi, Delhi Public School, India. “I never reached the end I imagined. I never found the final, pristine envelope with my name on it. But I’ve learned the rooms. I’ve learned their names, their scents, their rhythms. And I have survived the journey between them.”

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

Alicia Fischi, Fayetteville-Manlius High School, New York. “She will tell you she loves you, and the words will seem to hang in the stillness between you. It will feel like a promise. Whisper good night as she squeezes your hand and quietly pads out of the room,”

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

Ada Bartlett, Falk Laboratory School, Pennsylvania. “’No! You can't go out there. There is a MURDERER. Plus, it's getting dark.’ Mrs. Quinn shout-whispered. I knew what I had to do."

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

Aarna Desai, Timberlane Middle School, New Jersey. “And finally, in my eighth life I’d learn: happiness can come in many forms: books-coffee-solitude. I’d smile, not with regret, but with a knowing gratitude."

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American Writers Museum @americanwritersmuseum.org · 10/09/2025

At OnWord 2025, @petersagal.bsky.social and @davidgrann.bsky.social discussed the power of words to inspire and...the power of children to drive away men's hair? Stay tuned for a recap of the night coming soon!

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