Welcome to this edition of Buckeye Bookmark. This issue carries both an important community update and a collection of stories that point right to the heart of our mission as we hustle towards the 39th Annual Buckeye Book Fair.
First, please be aware: a fraudulent email address has recently begun sending what appear to be AI‑generated messages misappropriating my name and the name of the Buckeye Book Fair. These messages are not from me and not from our organization. We care about the safety of our authors, illustrators, and readers. The Buckeye Book Fair does not charge authors for a table and will never ask for money or a credit card number when inviting them to participate. Any unexpected financial request should be deleted. If you receive a message that feels suspicious or out of place, please reach out to us directly. We want every member of our community to feel protected and confident in their interactions with us.
Alongside this essential update, we are thrilled to share that the 2026 Buckeye Book Fair author and illustrator list is officially released. Each name represents a new book and a connection waiting to be made this November! The energy is building, and we are grateful to welcome so many creators into this year’s celebration.
This issue also features How to Tell the Difference: Your Guide to Ohio’s Literary Events, a friendly and informative look at the many book‑centered gatherings across the state. It’s designed to help readers understand the unique role each event plays in our literary ecosystem, and where the Buckeye Book Fair fits within that landscape.
We’re also shining a light on the vibrant indie author scene, a growing and essential part of Ohio’s creative community. These writers bring fresh perspectives and bold ideas.
and…
…as always, we invite you to deepen your connection with our mission.
Become a Buckeye Book Fair member. Your commitment strengthens the programs, authors, and readers we serve.
If you would like to receive our printed catalog this year, please be sure to sign up for a copy. This beloved tradition continues to evolve, and we want to ensure it reaches everyone who treasures it.
I hope you will explore every story in this issue. Each one opens a window into the work we are doing together and reflects the strength of a community that believes in books, creativity, and connection. Your engagement is the spark that keeps this organization thriving.
With gratitude,
~Kimberly
Featured Articles
We are excited to reveal this year’s cover image, illustrated by Jieting Chen from It Won’t Be Long by Laura Hays Hoover. This tender picture book follows a child’s journey from first steps to growing independence, paired with gentle, rhythmic verse that celebrates the small moments that shape childhood. Chen’s expressive artwork captures the joy and bittersweet beauty of watching a child grow.
Important Catalog News
As we prepare for this year’s Buckeye Book Fair, we’re taking an important step to refresh our 17,000‑person mailing list. Many addresses in our system are outdated, and we want to be sure our catalog reaches the readers who truly want it.
This year, we will still send postcards to everyone on our list. The postcard will guide you to choose how you want to receive your catalog. You can select a digital copy or request a printed version.
Our digital catalog goes live on September 25, so you can start browsing your next favorite reads early.
Prefer flipping real pages? We’ll happily mail you a printed catalog. Just sign up at BuckeyeBookFair.org by September 15.
Become a Member of the Buckeye Book Fair
Join a Community That Inspires Readers
For four decades, the Buckeye Book Fair has connected readers with authors, celebrated Ohio’s literary talent, and promoted a lifelong love of reading. When you become a member, you help ensure that this tradition continues while expanding literacy opportunities for children, families, and communities across Ohio.
If you love receiving the printed catalog, please consider becoming a Buckeye Book Fair Member. Membership helps offset the rising costs of printing and mailing, and it ensures we can continue offering this treasured piece of Buckeye Book Fair history for years to come.
Your choice helps us steward our resources wisely while keeping the catalog experience you love. Thank you for being part of the Buckeye Book Fair community and for supporting literacy across Ohio.
The 39th Buckeye Book Fair is Saturday, November 7th, 2026
The Buckeye Bookmark is the Buckeye Book Fair’s Newsletter, celebrating the transformative power of literature. Each issue shares how one book can change your life forever. Join us as we spotlight Ohio authors, promote literacy, and share stories that inspire and ignite the imagination. Don’t miss out on the magic!
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How do I request a paper copy of the event book if I do not have a Google account?
Hi Sandie, Thanks for reaching out. I just checked our settings to confirm, but you should be able to list any email address on the form. If you still have a tough time with it, no problem- just send us an email at info@BuckeyeBookFair.org, and we’ll get it ready for you!