20th Austin African American Book Festival Recap

2026 was a record breaking year for the Austin African American Book Festival (AAABF), more than 1200 people came to the Carver Museum and Library to celebrate literature, community and the Festival’s 20th anniversary. Presentations were so popular, overflow space had to be set up to accommodate attendees.

Adult Programming - Carver Museum

Poet Christopher Michael opened the Festival with a showcase of new and independent authors. Through short pitches and readings to a near-capacity crowd, the 20 authors proved that creativity and entrepreneurial spirit can go hand-in-hand. Book sales were strong throughout the day with most authors already making plans to return next year.

In conversation with KVUE’s Ashley Goudeau, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, creator of “The 1619 Project,” discussed how knowing our history allows us to make sense of our current circumstances and better understand what we can do to build the futures we want. Hannah-Jones emphasized the importance of getting involved with our schools and the governing process to ensure the retention of self-worth, knowledge and democracy.  

How financial literacy and capital attainment lead to freedom was the theme of John Hope Bryant’s talk with professor Sylnovia Holt Rabb. Bryant, author of “Capitalism for All.” was named to the Forbes list of the “250 Greatest Living Self-Made Americans,” for the creation of his personal wealth, and the work of his nonprofit Operation Hope, which is dedicated to financial literacy and economic empowerment.  

Journalist and author ReShonda Tate, a featured author in the very first AAABF, discussed the life of entertainer Hazel Scott and her marriage to Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., the principal characters in her historical novel, “With Love From Harlem.” In a lively conversation moderated by Spectrum News anchor and national health correspondent Dr. Nicole Clark, Tate entertained festival goers with her take on Scott’s love affairs, breakthroughs and challenges.

The finale of the adult programming was a performance by Austin’s Poet Laureate Zell Miller III. Reciting from memory and reading from his recently published book, from “Austin’s Indigenous Offspring,” Miller demonstrated how his poems capture the breadth of our emotions. Miller was part of the very first AAABF and the Festiva was honored to have him return for the 20th year. 

AAABF Kids Zone - Carver Library

The AAABF Kids Zone offered a full day of interactive programming designed to engage young festival-goers and families through storytelling, music, dance, and hands-on learning. Emcee Patrick Oliver guided the program throughout the day, ensuring a smooth and energetic flow of activities.

Award-winning author and illustrator Vanessa Brantley-Newton opened the program with song and affirmations centered on creativity and confidence, later returning to lead children in visual storytelling through art.

Brentom Jackson led an interactive reading of “Jubilee Jumps for Joy!” centered on faith, family, and joy, and returned later with “Elijah’s Easter Suit,” highlighting family traditions and connection.

Grammy-nominated musician SaulPaul introduced a new song centered on financial literacy and the idea of being “rich” in purpose, knowledge, and character, engaging both children and adults in the audience.

Out Tha Box Productions energized the space with a dynamic dance performance featuring rhythm, movement, and creative expression, engaging both children and adults.

Independent authors were featured throughout story time, with 10 indie authors engaging directly with children and families through readings and book sharing.

Lorraine Zajac introduced STEM-focused learning through 3D printing concepts, connecting literacy with hands-on design and innovation in “Logan’s 3D Printed Surprise.”