Before there were XBoxes, Nintendo DS systems, and 24-hour cartoon channels on cable TV, kids had to rely solely on this little thing called "imagination" to entertain themselves, and inspiration was often found in between the pages of books. Who can forget the swashbuckling tales of Robinson Crusoe, the inspired silliness of Dr. Seuss, the sweeping sagas of the Black Stallion, or the beloved fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm? Fodder for many a childhood fantasy for sure. Although today's kids are inundated with passive entertainment options, one thing remains certain: kids love books that speak to their imagination. That imagination, creativity, and the importance of reading, will be celebrated this weekend at the 12th Annual Rochester Children's Book Festival.

The free day-long festival aims to bring together children of all ages and the creators of some of the best contemporary children's and teen literature available today. Authors and illustrators from all over the region will be on hand, including favorite festival regulars, several best-selling authors, and new writers alike. Rounding out the festivities will be arts and craft activities, presentations and interactive workshops, plus a special guest from the Seneca Park Zoo.

Festival organizers have paid special attention to create age-appropriate programming designed to inspire and excite young readers. Throughout the day, illustrators will guide school-aged children through workshops on drawing superheroes and creepy critters, while younger children can learn about storytelling and try their hand at several crafts. Even the smallest of tykes have their own space in the "Read to Me" corner, featuring readings and storytelling by some of the festival's authors, illustrators and others.

This festival isn't just for the younger set. Specifically targeted programming for the 8- to 12-year-old "tween" set, and even a "Just for Teens" series, ensures the whole family can get in on the literary action. Tween workshops include a session with Rochester authors MJ and Herm Auch ("Chickerella," "The Princess and the Pizza") on how to take story ideas and make them into books. Teens will surely be thrilled at the opportunity to get up-close-and-personal tips on fantasy writing from such authors as Bruce Coville (the "Unicorn Chronicles" series), Tamora Pierce ("Melting Stones") and Will Hubbell (Morgan Howell "Queen of the Orcs" trilogies).

Of course, what would a book festival be without the books? More than 450 titles will be available for purchase. Many of the authors and illustrators will be on hand to sign copies, so bear that in mind for some early holiday shopping sprees.

The Rochester Children's Book Festival will take place on Saturday, November 8, at Monroe Community College, Brighton Campus (1000 East Henrietta Road), 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission and parking are free. Festival program schedules and maps are available at all Monroe County libraries, as well as on the festival's website, rochesterchildrensbookfestival.org.