The Turner Center Takes Readers Beyond the Book Saturday

Author Brings History to Life at Valdosta Literary Event

VALDOSTA, Ga. – Turner Center for the Arts invites the public to join in a celebration of reading and writing for all ages! The 2026 Turner Center Literary Fair will spotlight the work of local and regional writers/authors, include free youth activities, launch the Turner Center’s 7th Annual Art of Writing Contest for area middle and high school students, spotlight the Center’s Young and Adult Writers Leagues, and highlight other literary resources available at the Center and in the south Georgia community.

South Georgia News Update was able to speak with M. Nathan King, a featured author at the event, and he gave us a little insight into his debut book. “My novel, ‘Ezra Whetstone and the Masters of Time: The Mark of Aion,’ combines time travel with real history, taking young readers on adventures through ancient Egypt, Revolutionary France, the Inca Empire, and other fascinating moments in history. My mission is simple: inspire kids to discover that history is one of the greatest adventure stories ever told.”

Since the book’s release earlier this summer, King’s events have been tremendously well received. “I enjoy meeting families who are excited to see their youngsters become enthusiastic about reading and history,” said King. “Historical fiction can ignite a lifelong curiosity about the past.”

Beyond the Book: a Literary Event takes place Saturday, September 12th, from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. The event is free, with various vendors offering services throughout the day. Turner Center for the Arts is located at 527 North Patterson Street in Valdosta. For more information, call 229-247-2787 or email info@turnercenter.org.