WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT US…
“I was thrilled to be part of the first Maplewood-South Orange Book Festival.
Great venue, and I enjoyed seeing kids really excited about books.”
—TRACEY WEST, author of the popular “Dragon Masters” series for children
“It was quite a weekend with great events and wonderful writers both on Friday night and Saturday. I
truly look forward to seeing the Festival grow into a highlight of our very literary community.”
—JUDITH LINDBERGH, Director, The Writer’s Circle Creative Writing Workshops
“It’s an event so obvious for South Orange and Maplewood that it’s hard to believe it hasn’t
happened already.”—THE VILLAGE GREEN
Located just fifteen miles from New York City in the creative corridor of Maplewood and South Orange, the Maplewood—South Orange (MAPSO) Book Festival brings together readers and authors in celebration of the joy and diversity of the written word. Our informative author panels highlight the major artistic, social and political issues of the day, while our vibrant and fun-filled children’s area allow our youngest readers to discover the importance and delight of books—and meet many of their favorite authors!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where and When is the festival?
The Third Annual festival will be held on June 7 and 8, 2019 at the Woodland in Maplewood, NJ.
The 2018 festival opened with a cocktail reception and talk featuring best-selling author David Baldacci. All ticket proceeds from this event went to the Maplewood and South Orange libraries.
The main festival featured over 75 authors, including Oprah Book Club selection Tayari Jones, Anna Quindlen, Mets legend Keith Hernandez, and Claire Messud. There were also be panels on hot-button topics such as race and education, the rise of white supremacy, and the #Metoo movement.
What kind of children’s programs and activities are there?
The 2018 book festival had an extensive children’s area, with over 40 children’s and YA authors, as well as a kids “fun zone,” featuring games, music, food, face-painting and general mayhem for kids of all ages. Iconic kid’s author Rosemary Wells delivered the children’s keynote address.
How much does it cost to attend the festival?
Most events at the Festival are FREE of charge and open to the public.
What is the book festival’s anti-harassment policy?
The MAPSO Book Festival is committed to providing an environment where authors, attendees, volunteers, staff, board members, and anyone connected to, or participating in the festival in any way, can feel safe while attending the festival or events connected to the festival. We will not tolerate any behavior that a reasonable person would find intimidating, hostile, or offensive. Harassment of speakers, attendees, volunteers, or staff in any form will not be tolerated.
How do I get to the festival?