Miami: 41st Annual Miami Book Fair
Words by Sarah Ruiz
The 41st annual Miami Book Fair has come to a close, leaving behind amazing events that celebrated the power of books, storytelling and community, From captivating "Evening With" sessions to the vibrant street fair and the immersive Lost Chapter experience, the Miami Book Fair continues to offer a unique, inclusive event for book lovers of all ages.
Tongue Tied kicked off the festivities with a conversation with renowned journalist Jorge Ramos, a prominent figure in the Latinx community and anchor at Univision. In his discussion about his book “Así Veo Las Cosas,” Ramos shared stories from his illustrious career, detailing his experiences reporting from around the world and covering pivotal global events. The discussion touched on the challenges and rewards of being a journalist, emphasizing the importance of speaking truth to power and telling stories that need to be heard.
The evening continued with a compelling conversation with journalist Connie Chung, moderated by her husband, Maury Povich. In a heartfelt discussion about her memoir “Connie: A Memoir,” Chung took the audience on a journey through her groundbreaking career. From her early days in journalism to her coverage of historic events, Chung was honest about the racism and sexism she faced throughout her career. Despite these obstacles, she persevered, becoming a trailblazer for women of color in the industry. The evening was both inspiring and entertaining.
On Saturday, the Fair hosted another engaging panel titled "The Saving Grace of Books & Music – Memoir," featuring Glory Edim, author of “Gather Me: A Memoir in Praise of the Books That Saved Me,”and Alice Randall, author of “My Black Country: A Journey Through Country Music’s Black Past, Present, and Future.” The authors delved into the powerful intersection of music, books, and the African diaspora, discussing how these cultural elements shape identity and storytelling. As someone who had previously read Randall's “My Black Country,” it was inspiring to hear her speak in person about her experience writing the book. When it came to questions and comments, several people shared their admiration for Edim and how inspiring her work is to them.
One of the highlights of the Miami Book Fair is its bustling street fair, which featured books for readers of all ages. With a wide variety of genres and languages, the street fair truly had something for everyone. In addition to books available for purchase, there were also free books for attendees to take home, making the event accessible to all. Authors who participated in panels were available for book signings, offering a personal touch to the event. The street fair was also lively with fun mascots, including the beloved Geronimo Stilton, who took photos with children and adults alike in the Children’s Alley.
Whether you live in Miami or not, this is an event that book lovers simply cannot miss. From thought-provoking discussions to a dynamic street fair, the Miami Book Fair remains a must-attend celebration of literature, culture, and community.
We can't wait for next year!