“Good literature is like good thunder.”

-Rick robbins, previous good thunder director

The Good Thunder Reading Series’ mission is to promote literature, inspire creativity, and foster lively conversations about why writing matters. We bring acclaimed writers from diverse backgrounds and literary traditions to Mankato, Minnesota. During their visit, each leads a morning workshop, presents an afternoon talk, and gives an evening reading followed by a book signing.

All of our events are free and open to the public.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

You can find out more about our upcoming events and community programming by exploring the menu above.

The Good Thunder Day of Events

Workshop

Our day starts out with a morning workshop, where our visiting author leads all in attendance through a hands-on practice of writing through readings, discussions, and writing prompts. Every workshop attendee leaves with new writing of their own by the time the hour is up!

Craft Talk

In the early afternoon, our visiting author holds a lecture discussing a specific aspect of their personal writing craft and practice. Afterwards, there is a Q&A followed with the opportunity to purchase their book and have it signed.

Reading

Finally, the day of writing ends with our nightly reading. Here, our author reads from their own work for 30 or so minutes. Again, attendees have the ability to purchase the author’s book and have it signed.

Learn what Good Thunder is all about!