Always wanted to write a book, just not sure where to begin? Why not speak with someone who's done it, or better yet, 17 people who have done it, tomorrow at Brazos Bookstore's Local Author's Day.

The biannual event features an open-house setting from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., allowing for one-on-one interaction with an assorted collection of local, regional and self-published authors in a variety of genres, from mystery (Connie Knight) to children's books (Marilyn Sebesta), philosopy (Uchenna Okeke) to fiction (Sameer Ketkar), and even a cookbook by Houston's own Shubhra Ramineni, author of the award-winning Entice with Spice, Easy Indian Recipes for Busy People.

Art Attack was fortunate to catch up with the young author, as these days she's a very busy girl. After Saturday's event she's off to New York City for her book launch at Alcon Gallery on the 25th, and then back to Houston on August 30 for a hands-on cooking class at Rice Epicurean Market with local favorite and Top Chef Masters alum Monica Pope. She's also scheduled to speak about Indian cuisine and autograph copies of her book at two Houston Public Library locations in September.

Ramineni attributes her success, in part, to Houston's uniquely diverse and thriving culinary landscape. "Houston has so many foodies and restaurants, and a diverse cultural population that is familiar with or open to trying different cuisines," she says.

Ramineni says she's excited for the event, especially since Brazos is her neighborhood bookstore.

Local Author's Day will feature meet-and-greets and book signings with authors Alton Thompson, Marilyn Sebesta, Shubhra Ramineni, Joe Donn Martin, Wayland M. Fox, Connie Knight, Karen L. Pepkin and Wendell C. Taylor, Sameer Ketkar, Uchenna Okeke, Shelley Calton, Ellen Leventhal, Matthew Rosas, Sammy Gouti, Suzanne Marion, Ray Gatica, Margie Loving and Suchada Kailey. For more information, call 713-523-0701 or visit www.brazosbookstore.com. Free. 
Sat., Aug. 20, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 2011.