Six years ago, I started Read with Jenna with one simple hope

that by sharing my love of books, I can inspire more people to fall in love with reading.

Since then, we've selected over 80 book club picks, shining a spotlight on debut voices and diverse authors whose stories have moved and inspired us.

At our very first Read-Wagena Book Festival in Nashville, I had the joy of sitting down with some of the incredible authors we featured over the years, including Chris Whitaker, Gene Kwok, Allison Espak, Muman Alam, and Cocoa Mellers.

They shared insights into their creative process, what they're working on now,

and how their own lives have influenced their writing.

You'll also hear their thoughtful advice for aspiring writers, favorite book recommendations,

and what they find most meaningful about storytelling.

And of course, they answered questions from our amazing festival audience.

I'm Jenna Bush-Hager and welcome to a special episode of Open Book with Jenna,

live from the Read with Jenna Book Festival in Nashville.

I'm really excited for my next panel.

This year, Read with Jenna turned six.

She's in kindergarten.

And to mark the moment, I wanted to bring together some of the amazing authors that have made this club so special. They're from different genres, different backgrounds, all of the things, but they all

showcase the talent, heart, and storytelling and power, I think, that define Read with Jenna.

These writers have moved us, they've challenged us, and they've reminded us why we

fall in love with books. Please welcome Chris Whitaker, Gene Kwok, Ellison S-Pack, Raman Alam, and Cocoa Mellers.

Let me just introduce you, although I know they need no introductions.

Chris Whitaker is the author of All the Colors of the Dark.

Jean Quack is the author of many books, but the one we chose was searching for Sylvie Lee.

Alison Espak is the author of The Wedding People.

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