J.K. Rowling started out with telling her kids stories about a character named Harry; now-retired fourth grade teacher Elizabeth Falk wrote books set during key points in New York State's history. Sure, one has made bazillions and the other? Well, she did something even better. She helped her students learn.

"I started writing stories - historical-based local fiction study stories with the facts in them needed for the (class history) test," Falk says. "Their test scores soared and I thought, ‘Geez, I think I've got something here..."

Falk, along with 39 other children's book authors, illustrators, and even a few furry friends will be on hand Saturday, November 7, at the Rochester Children's Book Festival. The festival, now in its 13th year, brings everyone together for a full day of workshops, readings, book signings, and activities designed to allow kids' imaginations to run free.

One such author is Rebecca Stead, whose latest title "When You Reach Me" is gaining in popularity among young adult readers. Headliner Steven Kellogg is sure to thrill both kids and educators, who, Falk explained, use many of his titles in their classrooms.

"He's really a favorite of teachers because his books go along with the curriculum so much," Falk says. "One of his titles - ‘How Much is a Million' - is a wonderful book for math class."

A stroll around the myriad tables in The Mall (the main hall where authors will have their books for sale) may yield a few surprises. See that award-winning author? Yep, that might be your neighbor.

"The main purpose of the festival is really a celebration of how very many local authors we have here," Falk says. "People aren't really aware how many authors are here locally. These are people who write these books, and yet they live normal lives here."

Read To Me Corner, where authors read their stories aloud, will be a favorite for the younger set. Kids can also try their hand at reading aloud to service dogs from Lollypop Farm. The Busy Bookworm area offers 18 different book-themed crafts kids can create, and the popular Presentation Place, along with Teen Time for the older set, will give kids the chance to learn firsthand about the creative process from authors and illustrators.

"It's so important for teenagers - especially those who are thinking they want to be a writer - to hear as many authors as they can," Falk says. "This is a place where authors talk about their craft. It's wonderful!"

The Children's Book Festival will be held at Monroe Community College (1000 E Henrietta Rd) Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission and parking are free. For a full list of authors and activities, visit rochesterchildrensbookfestival.org.