Ana Rodriguez (also known as Latintemptress) kicked off the idea for WagFest. A group of Kerry Wagner fans, affectionately known as “The WaggieKatz” wanted to have a meet and greet with the man himself. Kerry believes in delivering to his fans. He also knew soon after stepping into this publishing game that he was destined to change the face of urban publishing. When Ana’s idea was placed before Kerry the revolutionary mind of the man gave birth to “Wagfest.”
While a green author Kerry E. Wagner was courted by Zane/ Strebor Books and several other noted publishers. After investigating the avenue of traditional publishing, Kerry quickly deduced that self publishing was the only choice. Kerry knew that not only did he have a story to tell but the way he wanted it told. Self publishing his project would ensure that he had creative control and that he would be the primary financial benefactor of his hard work. He would not allow hours of blood, sweat and tears to be ate up by the so called big publishers who would then gain the greatest financial benefits from his work. WagFest is Kerry’s gift to other young authors. It is designed to wake these authors up to the game of literature and how they are played in this game and how to play in this game. WagFest was designed to educate them on being resourceful, other publishing options and how to maximize their profits. Kerry offers the insight that other authors are unable or unwilling to share. His efforts have been met with mixed emotions in the literary community. Perhaps it is his brash and no nonsense approach to life and responsibility. If you know Kerry E. Wagner you know that he is not interested in people liking what he does; but respecting it. HARD WORK, INTEGRITY, and EFFICIENCY are paramount to Kerry and anything he associates himself with. NO ONE can deny when rolling with Kerry E. Wagner you get excellent results.
Kerry E. Wagner set out to change the game of urban literature as far as commercialism, marketing and compensation went. Kerry believes that self published authors have to know the value of their hard work to DEMAND their worth.
Wagfest New Jersey 2007
Wagfest 2007 introduced one of the platforms used to bring his vision to fruition. WagFest 2007 allowed an opportunity for self published authors to network and showcase their novels. Authors met current readers in an intimate setting, engaging in dialogue, showing their appreciation for their readership; while meeting new readers and building their fan base.
Wagfest 2007 provides the venue and an opportunity for those authors to see other self published authors at work. These authors met to network, share ideas and other strategies to enhance their marketability.
This event was pulled off with sheer determination. There was no operating budget this year. There was no blue print. There was no plan that led the way. There was a group of people who donated their credit, skills and talents. There was also Kerry E. Wagner a man with a purpose for himself and the generosity to give the game to other authors.
Wagfest Seattle 2008
In March 2008, Wagfest Seattle consisted of a bustling poetry party, book bazaar, Passion Party, and a night out on the town. Special guests, BET Comedian D Lamont Hall and CJ Johnson of Hiram Clarke Films were in attendance, and CJ taught a class at the conference on how to turn your book into a film. CJ has an impressive resume and has worked with some of the best in the film industry. He provided a plethora of valuable information on the movie industry along with offering his services to convert your book into a film or play.
Other locations have included:
WagFest Cincinnati 2008
WagFest Seattle 2009
Wagfest Atlanta 2009
NEXT STOP
Wagfest NIANAF Week in Shreveport 2010