Comics Fest in Durham offers workshops, activities for aspiring comic book authors

The two-day event features workshops, guests, book signings, activities and prizes for all ages. It's from noon to 5 p.m., Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday, at the library at 3605 Shannon Rd.

Events include a comics storytelling workshop at 1 p.m., Saturday, featuring Mark Crilley, an author and artist of several series including Miki Falls, Brody's Ghost and the Akiko books. He'll perform live drawing demonstrations, read from his graphic novels and give advice to aspiring comic book creators about everything from story ideas to editing.

For kids ages 6 to 12, Willow Dawson, author and artist of Lil and Ecco's Do-It-Yourself Comics Club and No Girls Allowed, will talk about creating reality-based characters. The workshop, at 3 p.m., Saturday, is designed to inspire reluctant readers and writers.