I wandered into the American Writers Museum last November for the John Hughes exhibit and left a member, thanks to being gobsmacked by the quality of exhibits. In addition to an ardent commitment to amplifying diverse voices, it was clear that the Museum mission is one that celebrates the power of play in all forms, for all ages. Exhibits invite people to jump in, step back in time, create and explore. Wonderful place-- one of Chicago's best treasures.
Having the chance to peruse all the American Writers Museum has to offer is an awesome opportunity for voracious readers and writers. There is so much to be learned about writers that have shaped our history, as well as the future. I found myself in awe of how many great American writers there were that I had never even heard of, but I am now eager to read their work after learning about them at the museum. Their shift from physical to virtual exhibits over the past year in the face of great challenges is a testament to the flexibility and ingenuity of writers across the country as well.
The staff at the museum are incredibly kind and it is clear that they are deeply passionate about the museum and its core values. This is reflected in the content presented in the many exhibits at the museum. A lot of care has gone into making exhibits not only informative, but also incredibly engaging for readers of all ages, and it shows. Having interactive exhibits makes it easy to lose track of time because you're absorbed and enthralled by the material.
As an avid reader and aspiring writer, the American Writers Museum is an opportunity for learning and for great inspiration. While they have a wide array of interactive displays and in-person events, I have found a great appreciation for their use of online content in these times. The digital author talks are very engaging and exciting, featuring prominent writers like Scott Turow, Ross Gay, Eve L. Ewing, and many more. Even from home, there are so many parts of the museum to engage with, from these author talks to the virtual exhibits like "My America" to the podcasts, to only name a few. Overall, the museum offers a thought-provoking, entertaining experience for any and everyone.
This museum is a delight for people who are avid readers and writers, and everyone else too. The exhibits make the connection between great American writing and the history of the U.S., showing how the writers influence our culture and even historical events. I have attended a few of their evening programs with authors, which are also really interesting. You can spend an hour - or several hours, exploring and contemplating and expanding the list of books you want to read. Highly recommended.
My family loves this museum. The historical stories about the authors and about writing, such as the old typewriters, are interesting. And the samples of text from great American authors brings back memories of books we’ve already read and makes us want to explore new texts. But the best part is the engaging interactive exhibits plus the ongoing new and updated exhibits which add surprises and interest to every visit.
One of the things I enjoy about the American Writer's Museum is that it gives us insight into not only the past of American writing, but the future as well. The information is through and entertaining, from the hanging displays of famous writers and their stories, to the interactive touch screens that lets visitors craft sentences and short tales. But the biggest highlight of the museum is that visitors can write their own stories, on a typewriter no less. I had the pleasure of looking through what visitors wrote, and was astonished to see how many great writers there are, young and old, who, when you finish reading what they've written, make you wish they had written more. The future of American writing is definitely in good hands, and the American Writer's Museum proves it.
The American Writers Museum is a treasure in Chicago! The interactive exhibits are a brilliant way to go deep with your favorite writers and learn about new writers that you might not be familiar with. And the special exhibits focusing on writers like Jack Kerouac and Bob Dylan have been so well curated. Their current exhibit on immigrant and refugee writers is timely and so thought-provoking. There is a lot to see and do with the typewriter collection and word games. It is a great way to spend the afternoon in Chicago.
The American Writers Museum is a favorite destination of my young kids. We have held play dates and a even a birthday party at the museum. It is wonderful to watch the children engage with the interactive exhibits to learn more about American authors and to play word games. It is especially fun to watch them carefully type our stories on the collection of type writers at the museum. It is a must-see for locals and tourists alike.