For nearly 30 years, the University of Mississippi has hosted a week-long conference devoted to the appreciation and understanding of one of America's greatest writers: William Faulkner. The conference is designed to appeal to readers of Faulkner at many levels — from novice readers just beginning to enter Faulkner’s fictional realm to advanced scholars and researchers who have devoted decades to the study of Faulkner.

For beginners, the conference features a number of presentations by Faulkner family and friends designed to acquaint audience members with both the man and his region. Guided tours of Faulkner’s hometown of Oxford and surrounding areas in Mississippi are available to offer firsthand glimpses at the real-life models for many of the settings depicted in Yoknapatawpha County, or you may feel free to simply explore Yoknapatawpha on your own. Other conference events that will appeal to Faulkner readers of all levels include museum exhibits of photographs and Civil War memorabilia; an "open mike" evening for impromptu readings of Faulkner; and dramatic readings of Faulkner’s works, as well as the first public reading of the winner of this year's Faux Faulkner contest.. This year's conference will also feature a performance of Faulkner’s Bicycle, a critically acclaimed play performed by Chicago's Rivendell Theatre Ensemble.

For more advanced readers of Faulkner, renowned scholars from around the world will present scholarly papers treating on the theme of the conference. Addressing this year's theme, "Faulkner and War," will be such scholars as Noel Polk, Löthar Honnighausen, James Watson, and historian Don Doyle.

Teachers of Faulkner won't want to miss the "Teaching Faulkner" workshops, which are smaller, less formal sessions that offer new and innovative ways to present Faulkner to students. The sessions are not restricted to teachers, however — these "hands-on" treatments of Faulkner offer readers of all levels to ask questions and to express their own opinions.

Last but certainly not least, the conference's numerous social get-togethers, including a buffet supper, a picnic at Rowan Oak (Faulkner’s home), and a closing party, ensure conference attendees the chance to rub elbows and swap stories with fellow Faulknerians.

The registration fee before July 2 is $150 for students, $175 for Friends of the Center, and $200 for other participants, and includes admission to all program sessions and special events. Fees for registration after July 2 are higher by $25 in each category. The standard fee does not cover lodging, the optional tours of Faulkner country, and food, except for the Sunday buffet, the Rowan Oak picnic, and the closing party.

For more information, including a printable registration form, visit the conference web site at www.olemiss.edu.depts/south/faulkner/.