Books By the Bay, Northwest Florida’s largest literary event, returns to Pensacola for its third year with a lineup of award-winning national, state and regional writers showcased in a new venue. The free festival slated for Saturday, March 28, is moving to Bayview Park, Pensacola’s popular park on Bayou Texar.
“Books By the Bay is now truly on the bay,” says Tonya Dalhaus, event director for Books By the Bay. “We’re thrilled to showcase our authors in such a beautiful waterfront setting—this year they can enjoy the view without worrying about the weather.”
Featured guest is Kyla Zhao, a bestselling author who by the age of 26 had published three novels with the world’s largest publisher, Penguin Random House. A native of Singapore now living in California, Zhao has been featured in Forbes, Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and seen on “Good Morning America,” CBS, NBC, and ABC, to name a few. She has written for Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Harper’s Bazaar, and Tatler.
A former competitive chess player, Zhao’s 2024 bestselling novel Let the Best Player Win has gained popularity among middle grade readers and chess players of all ages worldwide. The upbeat, fast-paced story addresses overcoming gender stereotypes and anxiety in the competitive world of chess. Zhao writes in multiple genres including Asian American fiction, women’s fiction, rom com, and coming of age. Her other novels are Valley Verified (2023) and The Fraud Squad (2024).
“It’s exciting to see Books By the Bay gaining national attention,” said Event Director Dalhaus. “Kyla Zhao contacted us wanting to take part, and even Highlights magazine sent children’s scavenger hunt games after hearing about the festival. We have authors coming from across the country—from California to Tennessee—plus an incredible lineup of local writers who truly reflect the Gulf Coast’s cultural diversity.”
This year, Books By the Bay is cordoning off a section in the Bayview Community Center where area authors can sell their books in three-hour increments on Author’s Row. Authors can also apply to do readings from the stage in the adjacent senior center.
More than 50 “early bird” authors have booked space for this year’s festival, but spaces are still available. The day-long event also includes readings by authors, children’s activities, a haiku slam, a Book Club Challenge and performances by community groups.
The festival is sponsored by Emerald Coast Writers, a 501c3 nonprofit. “Books By the Bay is powered by volunteers, and we’re always looking for more helping hands and sponsors to make it our best year yet,” said Dalhaus. To exhibit, volunteer or become a sponsor visit the festival website booksbythebay.info or email Dalhaus at booksbythebayfest@gmail.com
