Announcing the 2025 New Hampshire Book Festival Lineup: A Book Festival for Readers of All Ages
There’s something deeply special about gathering around stories — the kind that make us think, feel, and connect more deeply with the world around us. That’s the spirit at the heart of the New Hampshire Book Festival, and we’re thrilled to share what’s ahead for October 3–4, 2025 in downtown Concord.
This year’s festival brings together a vibrant mix of acclaimed adult authors, beloved children’s storytellers, and readers of all ages for two days of conversation, inspiration, and community. Whether you’re a lifelong bookworm, a parent raising one, or someone who simply loves a good story — you’ll find something here to spark your imagination.
Keynote Spotlight: Walter Mosley Takes the Mainstage
We’re honored to welcome Walter Mosley as our 2025 Adult Keynote Author. A literary icon and recipient of the National Book Foundation’s Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters, Mosley is known for his compelling explorations of race, justice, and American life through works like Devil in a Blue Dress, Every Man a King, and the celebrated Easy Rawlins series.
Mosley will appear in conversation with bestselling author and investigative journalist Hank Phillippi Ryan on Friday, October 3 at the Capitol Center for the Arts. Together, they’ll dive into the power of storytelling, how fiction can illuminate truth, and what it means to write toward justice.
Tickets for “A Conversation with Walter Mosley” go on sale Wednesday, June 25, at ccanh.com. We expect strong interest — don’t wait!
Children’s Literature That Lights Up Young Minds
Our KidLit programming continues to be one of the most joyful and impactful parts of the festival — and this year’s lineup is bursting with talent. Headlining is Tui Sutherland, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Wings of Fire series, whose world-building and heart have captivated millions of young readers.
Sutherland will deliver the Children’s Keynote on Friday, October 3 at 10:30 AM, and return Saturday, October 4 for a Family Keynote on the NHBF KidLit Stage (more information coming soon). Saturday’s festival on Main Street in Concord hosts a dynamic group of picture book creators, middle-grade authors, and YA voices who reflect the diversity and wonder of today’s young readers.
Featured children’s authors include:
Aaron Becker, The Last Zookeeper (Caldecott Honor winner)
Jason Chin, Hurricane (Caldecott Medal winner)
Cheryl Willis Hudson, When I Hear Spirituals
Wendelin Van Draanen, The Steps (Edgar Award winner)
Azadeh Westergaard, The One and Only Googoosh (Golden Kite Award winner)
…and many more! Find the full author list here.
Panels will explore topics like the nature of home, family dynamics, women and girls breaking barriers, and the changing landscape of children’s literature — all moderated by professionals from NHPR, The Boston Globe, and other authors.
“The KidLit stage is one of the heartbeats of the festival,” says Emilie Christie Burack, co-founder and President. “We’re honored to welcome these brilliant authors to New Hampshire.”
A Powerful Lineup of Adult Authors Across Genre
In addition to our keynote, the festival on October 4 on Main Street in Concord, NH will feature more than 25 celebrated adult authors across genres — from literary fiction and memoir to cultural criticism and poetry.
2025 highlights include:
Rob Franklin, Great Black Hope
Allison King, The Phoenix Pencil Company
Sharon Kurtzman, The Lost Baker of Vienna
Annie Hartnett, Road to Tender Hearts
Harry Bliss, You Can Never Die
Michelle Young, The Art Spy
Cara Bastone, Promise Me Sunshine
…and many more! Find the full author list here.
Attendees can expect thoughtful panel discussions, live readings, audience Q&As, and of course, book signings with the authors themselves.
“This lineup reflects the depth, diversity, and excellence we strive to bring to New Hampshire each year,” says Sarah McCraw Crow, co-founder and Board Chair. “Whether you’re a longtime reader or simply book-curious, this festival has something to offer.”
What’s Next?
The full festival schedule (with panel times/locations) will be posted soon at nhbookfestival.org/schedule
Tickets for Walter Mosley’s keynote go on sale Wednesday, June 26, at ccanh.com
Follow us on social @nhbookfestival for behind-the-scenes updates, author features, and ways to get involved
Whether you come for the conversation, the community, or just the joy of being surrounded by people who love books as much as you do — we can’t wait to welcome you.
Come be part of the story.
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New Hampshire Book Festival
October 3–4, 2025 | Downtown Concord, NH
www.nhbookfestival.org
