Literary Indulgence Book Festival 2026

The Literary Indulgence Book Festival returns for its third year, bringing together authors, educators, readers, and families for a powerful celebration of storytelling and community impact.

With an anticipated attendance of 500+ guests, this free public event continues to grow as one of Jacksonville’s premier literary experiences.

Join us as we close out the celebration of the (a) river rising: Anthology of Women’s Voices: Spaces and Places anthology exhibit at the FSCJ Kent Campus Art Gallery. In a special collaboration with Women Writing for (a) Change Jacksonville, the Literary Indulgence Book Festival will celebrate the works of Teresa Cook and Emily Mitchell, their 2024-2025 Zora Neale Hurston Fellows. This collection delves into the profound meanings of 'place' and 'space,' showcasing a thoughtful and beautiful interpretation of these themes through the eyes of both artists.

The Literary Indulgence Book Festival is proud to feature Nikesha Elise Williams, an author with a gift for bringing family histories and generational stories to life. Her work weaves rich narratives where history, heritage, and heart intertwine. After years of independent publishing, Nikesha makes her traditional debut with The Seven Daughters of Dupree, a moving generational tale that follows seven women across time. With its intricate exploration of mothers, daughters, and the legacies they inherit, the novel is both an intimate and expansive testament to Nikesha’s narrative power.

Don't miss the chance to meet Nikesha Elise Williams in an intimate session as she pulls back the curtain on the publishing journey behind The Seven Daughters of Dupree. You’ll get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the craft required to weave together such a powerful multi-generational narrative of ancestry and legacy. It is a unique opportunity to hear directly from a master storyteller about the research and soul poured into bringing these seven women to life. Connect with one of the most influential literary voices right here in Jacksonville and walk away with your own personally signed copy of this instant classic!

Third Annual Literary Indulgence Book Festival

Saturday, July 18, 2026

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) Kent Campus

3939 Roosevelt Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205

2026 Theme: The New Faces of Education: Where Learning and Literature Converge

This year’s programming will explore how education and literature shape voices, strengthen communities, and inspire lifelong engagement with the written word.

Join moderator Rekia Beverly and panelists S.E. Smith, PeTika Tave, Michelle Flores, Mariah Jones, and Frank Goodin II for a dynamic discussion on how educators are reshaping the literary landscape. This engaging session explores the powerful intersection of teaching and storytelling, highlighting the voices that inspire the next generation of readers and writers.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• 40 Featured Authors Across Multiple Genres

• Youth Literary Pavilion: Children’s Writing Workshop/Storytelling/Books & Bubbles Giveaway/Face Painting & Games

• Educators in Literature Panel Discussion

• Literary Master Classes

• Author & Poetry Readings

• Book Signings and Networking Opportunities

• Andre Griffin, DJ DreOne/Vendors/Food Truck/Raffles & Prizes

STAY CONNECTED

More details about the featured speakers & festival fun can be found at www.literaryindulgence.com.

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Host or Publisher Literary Indulgence of Jacksonville Book Festival