What we’re about
Welcome to our diverse community of writers and readers! Our monthly social gathering is a safe and inclusive space where we explore stories from all backgrounds and perspectives. Our discussions revolve around sharing our favorite books, with a focus on diverse and usually South-Asian literature.
We believe in fostering a supportive environment for everyone to express their creativity and gain confidence in their writing abilities. Whether you're an experienced writer or simply enjoy reading and discussing stories, we welcome you to join us.
Our two-hour meetings cover a range of topics, including introductions and an open sharing session where members can discuss their own writing projects and provide constructive feedback to one another.
We're proud to be sponsored by Peerbagh, an Austin-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity through storytelling. By joining our group, you're contributing to a movement towards a more diverse and understanding world, one story at a time. Come join us and let's inspire each other!
Usual agenda:
- Introductions
- Our favorite books (diverse and usually South-Asian)
- Story circle - share stories & gain some creative confidence!
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Varta Storytelling FestivalAustin Public Library Hampton Branch at Oak Hill, Austin, TX
This year, Varta at Austin will focus on intergenerational storytelling with a special focus on South-Asian folk music.
RSVP HERE: https://www.peerbagh.com/varta-storytelling-festival/
We will have artists present Shadow Puppets from Kerala - known as Tholpavakoothu for the first time in Austin. Award-winning children's writers, Jyoti Rajan Gopal, Reem Faruqi, Meera Sriram will be signing books and talking about them in our creative panel. Poet Neha Rayamajhi and illustrator/writer Natasha Badhiar will have a workshop style event on poetry and art.
We will present an interactive folk storytelling performance with student dancers, and also have a Bharatnatayam workshop with RootEd foundation. Local artist Akanksha Jain will lead a paper quilting workshop for kids. And UT professor, Dr. Dalpat Rajpurohit will talk about his latest book.
Kids will have access to snacks and FREE ice creams. We will also launch children's magazine, Bento's next issue themed, "The Invisible String" that talks about intergenerational storytelling. The second season of Zubaani podcast will also be made available at the event alongside a digital archive project for folk storytelling from South Asia.
This event is made possible with the Elevate Grant from the City of Austin's Economic Development Department.
