Writers, illustrators, and book lovers of all ages are invited to a morning of creativity at the 73rd annual Breakfast with the Authors, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11 in the Santa Barbara County Education Office (SBCEO) auditorium, 4400 Cathedral Oaks Road, Santa Barbara.

Hosted by the SBCEO, the tradition offers a chance to meet local authors, poets and illustrators, share conversation, and enjoy breakfast together.

Students in grades 4-12, educators, librarians, aspiring authors, parents, and all community members are encouraged to attend this special event.

This year’s theme, Hooked: Sparking intrigue from the start, focuses on the method of and techniques in crafting captivating “hooks” that draw readers in from the get-go.

Each speaker will talk about their own writing journeys and processes, offering insights for emerging and experienced creators alike. This year’s featured authors include:

• Mike Bender, children’s book author
• JaNay Brown-Wood, children’s book author
• Bruce Hale, children’s book author/illustrator
• Sarah Scheerger, children’s book and young adult author
• Wendelin Van Draanen, children’s book and young adult author
• Robin Yardi, children’s book author

Register to attend by Wednesday, Oct. 8, at www.sbceo.org/breakfast. Early registration is recommended as space is limited to allow for personal interaction with the authors and illustrators.

Tickets are $16 for students (grades 4-12) and $20 for the general public. The price includes breakfast.

For more, visit www.sbceo.org/breakfast or contact Sachi Shiroma, 805-964-4710, ext. 5222, or sshiroma@sbceo.org.