In celebration of its anniversary, the Fellowship of Southern Writers is presenting a Benefit Reading Series to expand its activities.

The Fellowship was founded by Cleanth Brooks, George Garrett, Walker Percy, Eudora Welty, Louis D. Rubin, Jr. and other distinguished writers to honor the rich legacy of southern literature and the writers who make it.  Fellows participate in the biennial Arts & Education Council Conference on Southern Literature in Chattanooga, where they elect new Fellows, bestow awards on established and emerging writers and deliver readings and lectures.

Members of the Fellowship are now available year-round for readings, symposia and book-signings at far less than their usual fees.  Host institutions -- universities, libraries, cultural centers and other organizations -- select three Fellows to appear as part of the series.

For presentations by the three writers, the hosts will contribute $5,000 in support of Fellowship prizes and other activities that promote the literary arts in the South.  Hosts will also pay the Fellows' travel expenses.  For an additional contribution, hosts may schedule a panel or other formal presentation.

For information on the Benefit Reading Series, click here to download the brochure or contact Susan Robinson, FSW Executive Director, at 423.267.1218.