Renowned poet and author Nikki Giovanni will headline the 18th Annual Austin African American Book Festival.

Our theme "Black Feeling, Black Talk: Activism in Poetry and Prose," beautifully encapsulates the essence of Giovanni’s seminal work, “Black Feeling, Black Talk.” It’s a powerful acknowledgment of the awareness and consciousness required to confront the ongoing challenges facing Black communities, particularly in the realm of civil rights 

"We are thrilled to celebrate the festival’s 18th year with our featured guest, Nikki Giovanni,” said Roz Oliphant Jones, festival founder. “She is a literary legend and her life embodies our theme and her story will inspire all generations of festival attendees.”

By centering discussions around what Black men and women are feeling, the festival creates a platform for honest dialogue about the experiences, struggles, and triumphs within the community. It’s not just about acknowledging these feelings but also about channeling them into meaningful activism and advocacy.

Schedule of Events:

Adult Programs | Carver Museum Boyd Vance Theater

10:00am – 10:45am
Indie Author Showcase

In this festival favorite event, independent authors take the stage to discuss and read their work.    

11:00 am – 12:00pm
Nikki Giovanni in conversation with Amanda Johnston

The Austin African American Book Festival is proud to present literary master and national treasure Nikki Giovanni as this year’s principal voice. In conversation with Texas Poet Laureate Amanda Johnston, Ms. Giovanni will discuss her life and work. Ms. Giovanni will autograph books immediately following her talk. Please note that she does not personalize books. 

12:30pm – 1:30pm
Austin Poetry Slam Open Mic

Experience the powerful rhythms and rhymes of some of the most talented poets in Central Texas in our celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the Austin Poetry Slam. This open mic session will be hosted by Poet Christopher Michael.

12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Furious Flower Poetry Center Workshop | Dance Room

We are thrilled to welcome the Furious Flower Poetry Center, the nation’s first academic center dedicated to Black Poetry, housed at James Madison University in Virginia. This incredible workshop is designed to help teachers incorporate Black Poetry into their classroom curriculums. Attendees will receive a free syllabus and practical strategies to bring the richness of Black poetic expression into education. Teachers can receive CPE credit for attending.

1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Jessica Care Moore: Rocking the Poetry World

Get ready to hear the dynamic Detroit Poet Laureate, Jessica Care Moore. An internationally renowned poet, playwright, performance artist, Moore is the executive producer of Black Women Rock!

3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Canceling Censorship: Advocating for the Freedom to Read Banned Books Panel Discussion Moderated by Dr. Mark Cunningham

Join us for this panel discussion moderated by Dr. Mark Cunningham. Experts from our community will share insights on how we can be better advocates for banned books. Lend your voice to the discussion to strengthen our advocacy efforts and uphold the freedom to read diverse literature.

AAABF Kids Edition - Carver Library

10:00 am
Free Books, Breakfast Snacks & Big Book Stories with Deborah Orr

Young readers can start the day with story time and craft activity. Enjoy breakfast snacks and pick a free book for your library. All family members welcome.

10:30 am
Dance A Poem with Ballet Afrique 

Under the guidance of the esteemed Ms. China Smith, founder of Ballet Afrique, children and families will have the chance to express their creativity through movement. In this workshop, participants will create a dance inspired by a poem. A true blending of art forms

11:00 am
Story Snippets with Indie Authors

Join the story circle for learning and surprises as independent authors share a portion of their work. Find your new favorite author and build your library of Black literature.

12:00 am
Art Session with Author and Illustrator Don Tate

Draw with award-winning author and illustrator Don Tate. Future authors and artist will  learn drawing techniques they can use to illustrate their own stories.

12:30 pm
Publisher and Author Wade Hudson Inspires and Educates 

Acclaimed author and publisher Wade Hudson will read from his poetic narrative, INVINCIBLE, which spotlights little-known Black men and women who had a profound effect on the history of our nation.

1:00 pm
Gwendolyn Brooks Poetry for Young Readers with Patrick Oliver | ages 9+

Literary activist Patrick Oliver engages young people in an empowering writing and visual collage activity using Gwendolyn Brooks’ poetry. This is an opportunity for young readers to engage deeply with poetry and self-expression.

1:30 pm
The City We Built with Terry P. Mitchell

Terry P. Mitchell will read from her book “The City We Built: Black Leaders of Austin.” Attendees will learn about the many contributions Black men and women have made to the Austin community. Free, autographed copies of the book will be distributed while supplies last.

2:00 pm
Free Kona Ice Cups

Join us outside for a free cup of your favorite Kona ice treat.

2:30 pm
Carver Library Tour with our Little Readers & Thinkers

Behold the wonder of books and programs our favorite library has to offer.