Author Garth Stein part of inaugural WordWave

Internationally bestselling author Garth Stein, whose book “The Art of Racing in the Rain” has sold more than 4 million copies and been published in 35 languages, will appear at Tahoe WordWave this fall.

WordWave is a three-day festival (Oct. 9-11) on the grounds of Valhalla at the Tallac Historic Site on the South Shore.

Stein’s newest book, “A Sudden Light,” is set in a large historic house in the woods similar to Valhalla’s Grand Hall, the site of WordWave’s Friday night steampunk ball. It will kick off with a Champagne reception with Stein. On that Saturday at 12:30pm, the public is welcome to bring a sack lunch or head to the food truck and join an informal picnic lunch with Stein.

WordWave is a literary mash-up that will feature oral storytelling, theater performances and free readings, panels on craft, yoga, and a novel writing camp for kids. Highlights include a one-act playwriting contest, a Maker’s Station demo with bookbinding, letterpress, drum making, and found poetry and art.

Ticketed events include the steampunk ball, workshops, and a hike.

In addition to the free festival on Saturday, WordWave will offer paid workshops on craft and agent sessions; the entire schedule is online.