"As an author who's participated in a number of literary festivals, I can honestly say that this one already ranks among the best. A terrific selection of writers reading to appreciative book lovers in a richly historic setting. I had a great time, Claudia. Thank you for inviting me to be a part of it." – Alan Zweibel
“LitFest was a delight! Terrific authors and a smart, appreciative audience. Doesn't get better than that for this writer/reader.” -- Susan Isaacs
"Working in The Yale Musical Theatre Collection as an undergrad, I found an old record album and on the cover, "This collection of old Jewish favorites fills a long-needed want." The writer Jan Morris was so taken with the bizarre "a long-needed want" that she used it in her next book as a chapter heading. I only mention this because it's exactly what the Long Island LitFest does. It was a sheer delight to be part of and the audience loved it. The fest is a delightful, entertaining and highly valuable cultural event and certainly fills that long-needed you-know-what." -- Dick Cavett
"I was honored to be a reader at the inaugural LI LitFest! I not only got to read my work for a terrific audience, but was I was in heaven listening to so many extraordinary writers. A memorable day of laughs and literature!" -- Susan Konig
"I'm gonna sit down and write another book JUST so I can be asked back to this remarkable, magical, extraordinary festival. Trust me, it is filled with the kinda magic that makes you fall head-over-heels-in-love with the written word. And Claudia, she is completely swoonable." -- Amy Ferris
"It was such a thrill to participate in LI LitFest–-both as a writer sharing an essay as well as emcee for the event. Giving writers an opportunity to read their work not only enhances the experience for the audience but it’s a wonderful adrenaline rush to get an instant reaction to your spoken words. LItFest brought a new dimension to the power of the pen by giving it a voice. I’m humbled to have been a part of this amazing event." -- Barry Dougherty
"Of all the readings I've given inside extravagant castles, this was the most fun. Claudia Gryvatz Copquin is a force of nature and my new best friend." -- Dan Zevin
"I am so grateful that Claudia Gryvatz Copquin lowered her otherwise high standards to ask me to participate in the Long Island LitFest. It was wonderful. And nobody threw anything at me."
-- Jerry Zezima
"The first ever LI LitFest was all I hoped it to be...and more. There was a full house of responsive and eager listeners; an audience which liked to laugh. What could be better?! I loved every minute of it. I'm looking forward to a yearly tradition of LitFest from hereon in. Claudia Copquin did an amazing job of conceptualizing the festival, organizing it, (with terrific authors, I might add) and getting the word out. I was proud to be a participating author." -- Arlene Alda
“What a rewarding experience! I had a blast reading in front of a packed house and signing a bunch of my books. Then I had just as much fun meeting the other writers and hearing them read THEIR stuff. I was flattered to be among such an illustrious group. (I'm not worthy!) It was also a pleasure meeting so many audience members. A really well-read and enthusiastic group.” – Bill German
“Claudia Gryvatz Copquin is a fascinating combination of organizer/producer and writer. Recently, she gathered a group of talented essayists to read their work at Castle Gould in Sands Point, Long Island. She called upon the members of her “Living, Out Loud” group and they and others lit up the stage for the first ever Long Island LitFest. Claudia is a talented writer who knows her craft and has an original and entertaining voice.” -- Carol Scibelli
