NewsWhy We Hold Onto Books: An Appeal for Advocacy
By Kalela Williams “A room without books is like a body without a soul.” When I hear this quote attributed to the Roman philosopher Cicero, I actually see it, enlivened by the …
NewsWe’ve Finished Another Chapter!
We all know what it’s like to finish a chapter of a really good book–the contentment of completion, that sated sense of satisfaction. That is what I felt like as we closed out our 2025 Virginia Festival of the Book this past weekend. With over 65 events, from sold-out programs where we hastily trotted in extra chairs, to events with smaller, but deeply engaged audiences leaning forwards in their chairs, it was a privilege to offer every one of them.
NewsA Message from David Baldacci
Author David Baldacci loves the diverse array of authors you find at the Virginia Festival of the Book. What do you love most about the festival? Tell us in the comments. And …
NewsThe Game’s Afoot
Fictional detectives rely on their wit and intuition to solve crimes–but also the cleverest forensic techniques. From the presence of rare bat droppings to unexpected fingerprints, footprints, or even lip prints–how realistic are fictional forensics?
News2025 Live Streamed Events
If you can’t join us in person in Charlottesville for the 31st annual Virginia Festival of the Book, you can still enjoy the following festival programs online. Each event will …
NewsThe Arts and Businesses Behind Books
Whether you’re fascinated by bookbinding, curious about publishing, or just passionate about books, these events cover all the chapters in a book’s life. Celebrating the artistry and industry behind publishing, …
NewsHistorical Figures at the Virginia Festival of the Book
The Virginia Festival of the Book brings together an extraordinary array of authors who explore history, politics, music, and leadership. This year’s lineup includes works that delve into espionage, presidential …
NewsProducer’s Pick: Celebrating Nikki Giovanni
By Matt Darroch I’ve always kind of been a casual admirer of Nikki Giovanni and her poetry. I knew she was bold — never afraid to speak truth to power …
NewsPrint Program Now Available
Want a sneak peek at our print program? You can download a PDF here. These will be available during the festival at event venues, local bookstores, and our info table …
NewsUnforgettable Stories
Memoirs at the Virginia Festival of the Book – Whether you love deeply personal journeys, historical parallels, hilarious reflections, or thought-provoking narratives, these works promise to captivate and inspire. Here’s a look at some of the life stories featured at this year’s festival and the panels where you can find their tellers.
NewsMysteries, Thrillers, and Crime
This year’s festival offers curated panels of stories that promise to keep lovers of suspense, mystery, and page-turning thrills guessing until the end. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of intricate …
NewsI Hadn’t Planned on Making it Sing
Join With Good Reason for a series of conversations that bring Furious Flower Poetry Lifetime Achievement honorees in conversation with a new generation of Black poets.
