Reflections from the Sacramento Book Festival

There is something transformative about stepping out from behind the keyboard and into a room filled with thousands of stories. This past weekend at the Sacramento Book Festival, I did just that, and I’m returning to my desk with a full heart (and a slightly hoarse voice).

Writing is often a lonely endeavor, but events like this remind me that we are never truly alone. I had the chance to connect with so many fellow authors. We traded marketing tips, shared stories of our publishing journeys, and—most importantly—offered each other the kind of encouragement that only a peer can give. I’m walking away with several new friends and a renewed sense of belonging in this industry.

Of course, the highlight of any festival is the readers. To everyone who stopped by to chat, browse, or take a book home: thank you. Seeing the diverse range of readers in Sacramento—from kids discovering their next big read to seasoned bibliophiles—was a beautiful reminder of the power of the written word.

In a publishing landscape that often feels dominated by digital noise and social media algorithms, events like the Sacramento Book Festival are more important than ever. After joining Instagram at my publisher's behest in 2024, I recently took a break from posting to focus on what truly matters to my craft—reading, writing, rewriting, and more rewriting! I guess I was tired of the arms race of posting for posting's sake, or spending hours creating reels in order to "grow" an audience who probably are not interested in reading my books, ever. It's different with a book festival. There is a profound power in looking a young reader in the eye and sharing the heart behind your story. Festivals turn the solitary act of reading into a collective cultural experience. They remind us that books aren't just "content" to be consumed—they are the beginning of a conversation, a handshake, and a shared community.

The Sacramento Book Festival wasn’t just about the books on the tables; it was about the people behind them and the people who read them. I’m feeling incredibly grateful for the new friendships and the chance to share my work with such a vibrant community.