12th annual Signatures Author Series at John Cooper School features best-selling author

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- The John Cooper School is preparing to host the 12th Annual Signatures Author Series, a much- anticipated luncheon event that features a keynote author, the opportunity to talk to and purchase books from visiting authors as well as promote literacy in the greater Houston area.

The 2016 event, sponsored by The John Cooper School Fine Arts Council, will feature Cheryl Strayed, author of the bestselling memoir, Wild, on Friday, December 2 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center.

About This Year’s Featured Author

The John Cooper School is pleased to present Cheryl Strayed, author of the #1 New York Times bestselling memoir, Wild, that was subsequently made into a major motion picture that earned numerous awards, including two Oscar nominations. Strayed is also the author of New York Times bestsellers Tiny Beautiful Things and Brave Enough, and the novel, Torch.

Her books have been translated into 40 languages around the world and her essays have been published in major national magazines and publications. Strayed is co-host of the WBUR podcast, Dear Sugar Radio, based on her popular Dear Sugar advice column. She holds a bachelor’s degree from The University of Minnesota, a master’s of fine arts degree in fiction writing from Syracuse University and now lives in Portland, Oregon.

A History of Success

The John Cooper School has sponsored the highly popular Signatures event for the past 11 years, featuring such best-selling authors as Barbara Bush, Dave Barry, Mitch Albom, Anthony Bourdain, John Grogan, Nicholas Sparks, Candace Bushnell, Kathryn Stockett, Jodi Picoult, Tyler Florence and Gillian Flynn.

Supporting Local Literacy Organizations

The 2016 Signatures luncheon will also feature 15-20 visiting authors, book signings and a drawing for a bench that will be signed by Strayed. As is tradition, a portion of the proceeds from the event will be given to a local literacy organization. The 2016 beneficiary is the Montgomery County Memorial Library System. The deadline for submitting an application to become one of this year’s visiting authors has been extended to October 21. For an application form go to www.johncooper.org/specialevents.