Promoting Literacy ~ Helping Ohio Authors
📖 The Story So Far…
For 38 years, the Buckeye Book Fair has been more than an event—it’s been a movement. A place where readers meet their literary heroes, where students discover the magic of storytelling, and where books find their way into the hands of those who need them most.
But our story is still unfolding, and we need your help to continue this mission.
“AMRE has been a powerful bridge builder between the community and the College. It shows that there is valuable work that students from all disciplines can do in our community and beyond,” Dr. John Ramsay, founder of AMRE.
Dear Readers,
Welcome to the February edition of Book Bits, your monthly dose of literary news and exciting reads from the Buckeye Book Fair!
This month, we’re thrilled to announce the return of summer event: Buckeye Book Camp! Young writers entering 3rd through 8th grade can look forward to a summer filled with creativity, storytelling, and inspiration. Registration is now open—don’t miss out on this unforgettable writing adventure!
In honor of Black History Month, we’re spotlighting J.P. Mitchell’s Sweet Fire—a powerful and poetic celebration of confidence, identity, and self-love. Inspired by her own daughter, Mitchell’s book challenges the notion that girls must choose between being sweet or strong. It’s an empowering read for every young person learning to embrace their voice and passion.
At its core, Sweet Fire is a celebration of complexity, passion, and the power within. It challenges outdated narratives that tell young girls—especially Black girls—that they must shrink themselves to be accepted. Through rhythmic prose and vibrant illustrations, Sweet Fire sends a clear message: You were born to shine. You can be kind and powerful, soft and assertive, joyful and fierce.
Welcome to the first edition of Book Bits for 2025! This month, we’re excited to share our upcoming calendar of events and tell you about engaging authors like Bailee Abbott and Jane Ann Turzillo. We’ll also be shining a spotlight on our dedicated volunteer, Christina Mong, for her invaluable contributions to the Buckeye Book Fair.Continue reading “📚 Happy New Year from Buckeye Book Fair!”
Christina’s enthusiasm for the Buckeye Book Fair is infectious, and she encourages others to find their niche in supporting literacy and events like ours:
“To anyone who loves to read, you will truly enjoy getting involved in volunteering for the Buckeye Book Fair. There are so many different ways to help and to be a part of this wonderful event that I guarantee you’ll find your niche, just like me. I can’t wait to do it again in 2025!”
William Heath, a Youngstown native with deep Ohio roots, has been a featured author at the Buckeye Book Fair for years. Heath’s work spans poetry, fiction, history, and literary criticism, reflecting a rich and varied career.
As the year comes to a close, we’re filled with gratitude for the authors, readers, educators, and supporters who make the Buckeye Book Fair possible. Your enthusiasm for books and literacy continues to inspire us.
Thank you for being part of our community and helping to spread the joy of reading throughout Ohio. May your holiday season be filled with warmth, laughter, and, of course, plenty of great books!
The holiday season is here, and there’s no better time to celebrate the joy of reading and the magic of stories. In this special edition of Book Bits, we’re unwrapping inspiration to help you fill your season with literary cheer. From perfect gift ideas featuring our top authors to upcoming events, this month’s newsletter is packed with ways to make books the heart of your holiday traditions.
Wooster, OH – The Buckeye Book Fair is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious GIG Grant from Arts Midwest. This funding will support an artist residency in rural Wayne, Ashland, and Holmes County schools, featuring celebrated artist, speaker, and educator Andy J. Pizza.