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Amy Tan Headlines 2025 Off the Page Literary Festival in Sarasota County

| Suncoast Post Staff |

Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources has officially announced the much-anticipated lineup for the 2025 Off the Page Literary Celebration, a monthlong festival of reading, writing, and storytelling held throughout November. This annual event brings together bestselling authors, publishing professionals, aspiring writers, and literary fans of all ages for an inspiring schedule of workshops, author talks, book signings, and family-friendly activities.

The 2025 festival’s headline event features world-renowned author Amy Tan, who will speak at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, at the Riverview High School Performing Arts Center. Tan, best known for her seminal novel The Joy Luck Club, will discuss her newest memoir, The Backyard Bird Chronicles, which chronicles her love of birdwatching and nature through stunning illustrations and personal reflections.

The literary celebration kicks off on Saturday, Nov. 1, with a Writer’s Conference at Selby Library, hosted in partnership with Ringling College of Art and Design. Attendees can engage in immersive workshops, meet with publishing experts, and network with fellow writers at a community book swap.

Additional featured author events include:

  • Nov. 6 at 2 p.m. – Jack E. Davis, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Gulf and The Bald Eagle, at North Port Library
  • Nov. 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Family Day at Fruitville Library with crafts, food trucks, and a special visit from Ben Clanton, author of the Narwhal and Jelly children’s series
  • Nov. 10 at 6 p.m. – Sam Kean, science writer and author of Dinner with King Tut, at Gulf Gate Library
  • Nov. 12 at 3 p.m. – Robert K. Wittman, former FBI art crimes investigator and author of Priceless, at William H. Jervey, Jr. Venice Library
  • Nov. 15 at 3 p.m. – Chris Bohjalian, bestselling author of Midwives and The Flight Attendant, at Selby Library
  • Nov. 19 at 3 p.m. – Janet and Alex Evanovich, the bestselling mother-daughter author duo, at Shannon Staub Library
  • Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. – Fiona Davis, author of The Lions of Fifth Avenue, at William H. Jervey, Jr. Venice Library

The Family Day on Nov. 8 promises interactive fun with storytelling sessions, hands-on crafts, and delicious local eats. It’s the perfect outing for children and families to discover a love for books and reading.

A complete schedule of Off the Page events — including local author showcases, creative writing classes, and more — is available at OffThePageFL.org.

Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources includes 10 community library branches, a history center, and a mobile library. The department is dedicated to providing diverse educational and cultural experiences that promote lifelong learning for residents and visitors alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned author, a curious reader, or a family looking for literary fun, the 2025 Off the Page Festival offers something for everyone.

Photo from Off the Page Website

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