Bestselling Author David Baldacci to be Guest of Honor at Literacy Volunteers of America Event in Washington, D.C.

Bestselling author David Baldacci will be the guest of honor at the 3rd annual SCRABBLE Squabble for Literacy hosted by Literacy Volunteers of America in November in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., August 27, 2002 - Literacy Volunteers of America-National Capital Area (LVA-NCA) is pleased to announce today that bestselling author David Baldacci will be the guest of honor at its 3rd annual SCRABBLE Squabble for Literacy. The formal gala will be held November 2, 2002 in the Memorial Continental Hall at the Headquarters of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Washington, D.C.

Mr. Baldacci is the author of seven suspense novels: Wish You Well, Saving Faith, The Simple Truth, The Winner, Total Control, Absolute Power, and his latest, Last Man Standing (Warner Books 2001). Castle Rock entertainment made Absolute Power (Warner Books, 1996), into a major motion picture starring Clint Eastwood and Gene Hackman. Mr. Baldaccis next novel, The Christmas Train-a fast-paced story about magic, adventure, and a holiday journey across America-is set for release on November 4, 2002. His books have been translated into 39 languages, with more than 30 million copies in print in 85 countries worldwide.

In addition to being a top selling author, Mr. Baldacci is a strong advocate for literacy. He has supported the Virginia Literacy Foundation, the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, and has established his own The Wish You Well Foundation. In recognition of his dedication, LVA-NCA will present him its award for special contribution to Washington-area literacy.

In an area where an estimated 37 percent of adults are functionally illiterate, LVA is pleased and proud to recognize Mr. Baldacci for his tireless work to improve literacy and to expand reading programs nationally and in his own community," says Elin Ross, Executive Director of LVA-NCA. Beginning at a very early age, reading became an important part of my life. And reading is what got me into writing, says Baldacci. I honestly believe that if you make a reader early, you make a reader for life, and I am committed to eradicating illiteracy at all levels."

LVA sponsors its SCRABBLE Squabble event to raise awareness and funds to help D.C. metropolitan area residents improve their reading and writing skills. Mr. Baldacci will deliver remarks at the event, as well as a book signing. Also, there will be a formal signing of LVAs Declaration of Independence from Illiteracy.

For information on LVA and tickets for the 2002 SCRABBLE Squabble, please call 202-387-1772 or visit www.lvanca.org.

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