Over the past 38 years, the Buckeye Book Fair has welcomed a remarkable array of authors and illustrators, many of whom are household names, New York Times bestsellers, and award-winners who have helped shape the literary landscape of Ohio and beyond. As one of the longest-running and most respected literary events in the Midwest, the Fair has been a magnet for talent across genres and generations.
Here are just some of the celebrated authors and illustrators who have graced the Buckeye Book Fair:
National Bestselling and Award-Winning Authors
- Linda Castillo – Known for her bestselling Amish thriller series set in Ohio.
- Amanda Flower – Agatha Award-winning mystery writer whose cozy novels are beloved nationwide.
Celebrated Ohio Authors
- Mindy McGinnis – Edgar Award winner and author of acclaimed YA novels including The Female of the Species and Be Not Far From Me.
- Dandi Daley Mackall – Prolific writer of children’s and faith-based books, with more than 500 titles to her name.
- Andrew Welsh-Huggins – Mystery novelist and legal affairs journalist known for his Andy Hayes detective series.
- Tom Batiuk – Creator of the long-running comic strips Funky Winkerbean and Crankshaft.
Children’s Authors and Illustrators
- Richard Cowdrey – New York Times bestselling illustrator of Marley & Me and Bad Dog, Marley!.
- Will Hillenbrand – Celebrated Ohio-based author and illustrator with over 70 children’s books.
- Loren Long – Illustrator of President Barack Obama’s Of Thee I Sing and the Otis series (attended in earlier years).
Other Notables
- Wil Haygood – Acclaimed journalist and author of The Butler: A Witness to History, later adapted into a major motion picture.
- Thrity Umrigar – Award-winning novelist and professor whose work explores identity, race, and belonging.
- Tricia Springstubb – Known for her lyrical middle-grade fiction and heartfelt storytelling.
- Dav Pilkey – The author and illustrator of the popular children’s series “Captain Underpants.
This rich legacy underscores Buckeye Book Fair’s commitment to promoting literacy and celebrating authors whose stories inspire, challenge, and uplift. Every November, the Fair becomes a joyful reunion of storytellers and readers, and each year builds on this incredible literary tradition.
1980s–1990s: Foundations of a Literary Tradition
- Dandi Daley Mackall: Prolific author with over 500 titles, known for her contributions to children’s literature and Christian fiction.
- Tom Batiuk: Creator of the iconic comic strips Funky Winkerbean and Crankshaft, bringing humor and poignant storytelling to readers.
2000s: Expanding Horizons
- Linda Castillo: Bestselling author of the Amish thriller series, captivating readers with suspenseful narratives set in Ohio.
- Amanda Flower: Agatha Award-winning mystery writer, delighting fans with her cozy mysteries and engaging characters.
2010s: Embracing Diverse Voices
- Mindy McGinnis: Edgar Award-winning author known for her compelling young adult novels that tackle complex themes.
- Loren Long: Illustrator of President Barack Obama’s Of Thee I Sing and the beloved Otis series, enchanting children with his artwork.
2020s: Continuing the Tradition
- Thao Thai: Acclaimed author of Banyan Moon, recognized for her evocative storytelling and exploration of family dynamics.
- Joe Sutphin: Illustrator of the graphic novel adaptation of Watership Down, bringing classic tales to life for new generations.