What does it take to transform years of research into a book readers can't put down? Join a panel of acclaimed nonfiction authors as they discuss uncovering fascinating stories, navigating archives and interviews, and crafting compelling narratives that bring real people, events, and ideas to life. Whether exploring history, science, memoir, or current events, these writers will share how they turn facts into unforgettable reading.

Moderator: Jonathan P. Higgins, ED.D.  | Black Fat Femme: Revealing the Power of Visibly Queer Voices in Media and How to Love Yourself

• Anne Soon Choi | L.A. Coroner: Thomas Noguchi and Death in Hollywood

• Darby Saxbe | Dad Brain: The New Science of Fatherhood and How It Shapes Men’s Lives

• Raziq Rauf | This is Running: A Celebration of the World of Running, Exploring the Culture, History, Brands, Races and People Behind It

Children’s Authors

Picture Book Row

• Arlene Abundis

• Benson Shum

• Cassandra Federman

• Chris Harris

• Emily Barth Isler

• Jan Schwaid

• Jennifer Jackson

• Livia Blackburne

• Nikkolas Smith

• Nydia Armendia-Sanchez

Middle Grade Authors

Authors’ Row

• Amanda Deibert

• Ashley Granillo

• Callie C. Miller

• Daka Hermon

• Erika Lewis

• Jose Pimienta

• Karina Evans

• Margaret Finnegan

• Marie Miranda Cruz

• Mia Araujo

• PJ Gardner

• Priya Swaminathan

• Rex Ogle

• Simon Estrada

• Sherri L. Smith

• Tracy Badua

• Vanessa Cudmore

• Victoria Ying

There's nothing quite like hearing a story come to life through an author's own voice. Join us for an enchanting hour as beloved picture book authors share their books by reading aloud to children of all ages - and we do mean ALL ages.

Emcee: Chris Harris  | My Head Has a Bellyache

• Arlene Abundis | Into The Mighty Sea

• Benson Shum | Small Pets

• Cassandra Federman | Gray Squirrel Loses It

• Emily Barth Isler | Three Pieces of Broken Glass

• Jan Schwaid | The Shabbat Flood: A Texas-Sized Tall Tale

• Jennifer Jackson | Our World is a Family

• Livia Blackburne | Bing’s Cherries

• Nikkolas Smith | The History of We

• Nydia Aremdia-Sanchez | Frida Kahlo’s Flower Crown

Even as trends come and go, readers continue to return to stories that promise happily ever afters. Join a panel of beloved romance authors as they explore the enduring appeal of romance novels, the comfort and hope they offer readers, and how the genre continues to evolve. From changing trends in publishing to expanding representation and fresh perspectives on love, this conversation will celebrate why happy endings still matter.

Moderator: Erin La Rosa | Not You Again

• Amy Spalding | In Her Spotlight

• Clare Osongco | Unfinished Business

• Maurene Goo | One & Only

YA Authors

• Abdi Nazemian

• Carlyn Greenwald

• Gretchen Schreiber

• H.D. Carver

• Jennifer Chen

• Justine Pucella Winans

• Robyn Schneider

• Shelly Page

Non-fiction Authors

• Anne Soon Choi

• Darby Saxbe

• James T. Bartlett

• Jonathan P. Higgins, ED.D.

• Margaret Chandra Kerrison

• Oliver Wang

• R. K. Russell

• Raziq Rauf

• Robert Krut

• Vanessa Angélica Villarreal

• Alexandra Romanoff

• Allison Raskin

• Amy Spalding

• Bridget Morrissey

• Clare Osongco

• Erin La Rosa

• Frederick Smith

• Jeannie Choe

• Jenna Ramirez

• Kate Spencer

• Maurene Goo

• Natalie Messier

• Noël Stark

• Taylor Hutton

Every novel begins with a single idea—but how does it become a finished book? Join a panel of celebrated fiction authors as they discuss the creative process, from the spark of inspiration and developing memorable characters to overcoming challenges and bringing a story to life. Whether you're an aspiring writer or simply curious about how your favorite novels are made, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the journey from first draft to finished book.

Moderator: Adele Griffin | The Favor

• Gary Phillips | The Haul

• Mansi Shah | Saving Face

• Naomi Hirahara | Crown City

• Adele Griffin

• Chloe Lauter

• Gary Phillips

• Ilana Masad

• James Queally

• Jo Kaplan

• Julia Bianco

• Kiri Callaghan

• Lena Valencia

• Mansi Shah

• Matt Harry

• Naomi Hirahara

• Nicole Maggi

• Stefanie Leder

• Tilly Bridges & Susan Bridges

Stories have the power to help us better understand ourselves and one another. Join a panel of accomplished authors as they discuss the importance of creating books that reflect the richness of our communities, the value of authentic perspectives, and how literature can foster empathy, connection, and a greater appreciation for the many experiences that shape our world.

Moderator: Emily Barth Isler | Three Pieces of Broken Glass

• Abdi Nazemian | Exquisite Things

• Gretchen Schreiber | All The Stars Align

• Sherri L. Smith | The Year The Corgis Saved Christmas