Nationwide — The Austin African American Book Festival announces its 19th annual celebration of Black literature and culture, themed “Our Stories, Our Voices,” featuring acclaimed author Walter Mosley. The main festival will take place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Carver Museum and Carver Library (1165 Angelina Street, Austin, Texas).
New this year, festival activities will kick off on Friday, June 27, with Write On!, a dynamic pre-festival writers’ workshop. On Saturday, festivalgoers can participate in interactive sessions on topics such as how literature shapes political awareness, the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement, and the importance of preserving Black stories—highlighting the powerful role of Black literature and history in inspiring activism and social change. The Kids Zone will offer hands-on storytelling and creative activities designed to spark a love of reading in young attendees.
Dr. Rosalind Oliphant, founder of the Austin African American Book Festival, said, “For nearly 20 years, this festival has honored the power of Black storytelling in shaping who we are and how we move through the world. We’re proud to continue creating space for reflection, connection, and bold conversations that speak to our history, our creativity, and the ongoing work of justice and change.” The 2025 festival brings together a dynamic lineup of authors, historians, and cultural leaders who use literature to shape narratives, preserve history, and inspire future generations.
Festival Highlights Include:
• Walter Mosley in Conversation with Paul Coates
Best-selling author Walter Mosley joins Paul Coates, founder of Black Classic Press, to discuss how literature shapes cultural and political consciousness.
• Peniel Joseph on Freedom Season
Acclaimed historian Dr. Peniel E. Joseph explores the defining impact of the year 1963 on America’s Civil Rights Movement in his forthcoming book, Freedom Season: How 1963 Transformed America’s Civil Rights Revolution.
• Marita Golden on Capturing Black Stories
Award-winning author and co-founder of the Hurston/Wright Foundation, Marita Golden, will discuss her newest book, How to Become a Black Writer: Creating & Honoring Black Stories That Matter, in conversation with festival founder Rosalind Oliphant. Golden empowers writers to own their voices and ensure Black stories remain an undeniable force in literature and culture.
• Children’s Activities with Alice Faye Duncan
Renowned children’s author Alice Faye Duncan engages young readers through storytelling and cultural celebration inspired by her books, Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free, and Yellow Dog Blues.
• Author Showcase & Vendor Marketplace
Attendees can discover emerging literary talent during the Author Showcase and explore the Vendor Marketplace, featuring independent authors and Black-owned book-related businesses.
Join the Celebration
The Austin African American Book Festival continues its mission to celebrate Black literature, amplify diverse voices, and build community through the written word under the theme “Our Stories, Our Voices.” This free, family-friendly event is open to the public.
Visit www.aaabookfest.org or email info@aaabookfest.org for updates and workshop registration.