2026 Buckeye Book Fair Lineup

Event Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026 • 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: Greystone Event Center • 50 Riffel Road, Wooster, OH

The Buckeye Book Fair, one of Ohio’s largest and longest-running celebrations of books and storytelling, returns on Saturday, November 7, inviting readers of all ages to meet more than 100  authors and illustrators whose work shapes today’s literary landscape. Now in its 39th year, the Fair continues its mission of strengthening Ohio’s reading culture by connecting communities directly with the writers who inspire them.

This year’s lineup features an exceptional range of nationally recognized talent, including 3 New York Times bestselling authors Amanda Flower, Shelley Shepard Gray, and Thrity Umrigar, and 5 USA Today bestselling authors such as Anne Blackburne, Olivia Matthews, and Alex Erickson. These authors represent some of the most widely read voices in mystery, romance, literary fiction, and inspirational storytelling.

The Fair also welcomes major national award winners and honorees. Mindy McGinnis, an Edgar Award winner and multiple finalist, joins Jessica Strawser, acclaimed novelist and former Writer’s Digest editor-at-large, and Andrew Welsh-Huggins, Shamus Award finalist and respected crime writer. Their work reflects the strength and diversity of Ohio’s contributions to the national literary scene.

“I have tabled at many book events and festivals over the years, and Buckeye Book Fair is one of my absolute favorites. Great venue, great team, great authors, and great attendees,” said graphic novelist Wes Molebash.

Families and educators will find an equally impressive lineup in children’s literature. Award-winning illustrator Lindsay Ward, Arab American Book Award honoree Aya Khalil, and nationally recognized authors Keila V. Dawson, Lindsay Bonilla, and Marcy Campbell bring stories that have earned starred reviews, state reading list selections, and national honors.

“This year’s lineup is exceptional, and we know that connecting readers with books can change lives. We are excited to bring together authors and readers for a day of discovery, conversation, and community,” said Kimberly Jarvis, Executive Director of the Buckeye Book Fair. “The Fair is more than an event. It is a homecoming for readers, families, and the entire literary community.”

Authors also express their enthusiasm for the Fair.

“Of all the events I have been to, nothing compares to the Buckeye Book Fair. It brings together all the diverse flavors of Ohio’s readers and writers, celebrating creativity and community while reminding us all why we do what we do,” said author and preservation expert Jonathan Knight.

The Buckeye Book Fair offers book signings, interactive activities, and opportunities for readers to engage with authors across genres, including YA thrillers, cozy mysteries, poetry, nonfiction, and children’s picture books. The event is held at the Greystone Event Center, 50 Riffel Road, Wooster, from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

The 2026 Buckeye Book Fair Authors + Illustrators