For the last few decades, something strange happens in Miami every November. Suddenly, there’s a rise in the city’s intelligence quotient and people Downtown are seen carrying actual books out in the wild—real, printed tomes. The reason for the alarming occurrence? The return of the Miami Book Fair.
Now in its 35th year, the weeklong festival features author readings, book signings and a two-day street fair where local sellers, up-and-coming writers and other figures in the city’s literary community gather to celebrate the almighty written word. More than 450 authors from around the world are expected to attend the event, taking place from November 11 through November 18. Bookworm or not, there’s plenty to see and do at the 2018 Miami Book Fair. Here’s a glimpse of what’s in store.
Ibtihaj Muhammad
Named one of Time’s 100 Most Influential people, the author of Proud: Living My American Dream expands on her inspiring Olympic journey in person. Nov 16 at 10am. 300 NE Second Ave, building 1, second floor, room 1261.
Zack Bush
Ball & Chain owner and father of two Zack Bush reads from his tender tome about the special bond shared between a father and his newborn child. Nov 18 at 12:30pm. Wembley’s Author Tent, 300 NE Second Ave.
Eva Chen
Catch first-time children’s book author Eva Chen, best known as the former EIC of Lucky magazine and creator of the internet-famous #evachenpose, in conversation with Amy Dang-Stojanovic as the two discuss her stylish guide to girl power, Juno Valentine and the Magical Shoes. Nov 17 at 2:30pm. Wembley’s Author Tent, 300 NE Second Ave.
Pete Souza
Barack Obama’s presidential photographer and former Director of the White House Photo Office, Pete Souza sits down to discuss his latest book Shade: A Tale of Two Presidents, which visually contrasts the Obama and Trump administrations. Nov 14 at 6pm. Chapman Conference Center, 300 NE Second Ave.
Justine Bateman
Family Ties star Justine Bateman reads from her revealing memoir, Fame, which delves into the heartbreak and struggles of life in the public eye. Nov 17 at 11am, 300 NE Second Ave.
Tayari Jones
The New York Times best-selling author discusses her latest novel, the much-lauded An American Marriage. In addition to making President Barack Obama’s summer reading list, the book is a pick for Oprah’s Book Club and was optioned by Oprah Winfrey’s Harpo Films. Nov 13 at 8:00 pm. Chapman Conference Center, 300 NE Second Ave.
Sonia Sotomayor & Juan Felipe Herrera in Conversation
The honorable U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor sits down with U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera to discuss the picture-book version of her memoir, Turning Pages: My Life Story or Pasando Paginas. Among the many topics sure to be covered, Herrera and Sotomayor’s perspectives on becoming the first Latinos to hold their respective positions.
Nov 17 at 1pm. Chapman Conference Center, 300 NE Second Ave.
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