Amy Tan to Lead the 2025 Off the Page Literary Festival in Sarasota County

Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources has unveiled its exciting lineup for the 2025 Off the Page Literary Celebration, a month-long festival dedicated to reading, writing, and storytelling throughout November. This annual event unites bestselling authors, publishing professionals, aspiring writers, and literary enthusiasts of all ages for a rich experience of workshops, author talks, book signings, and family-friendly activities.

Headlining this year’s festival is the esteemed author Amy Tan, who will present at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, at the Riverview High School Performing Arts Center. Tan, acclaimed for her iconic novel The Joy Luck Club, will dive into her latest memoir, The Backyard Bird Chronicles, sharing her passion for birdwatching and nature through exquisite illustrations and personal reflections.

The festival kicks off on Saturday, Nov. 1, with a Writer’s Conference at Selby Library, in partnership with Ringling College of Art and Design. Attendees will enjoy immersive workshops, meet industry experts, and network with fellow writers, along with a community book swap.

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 featuring crafts, food trucks, and a special appearance by Ben Clanton, author of the Narwhal and Jelly 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

Family Day on Nov. 8 promises engaging activities such as storytelling, hands-on crafts, and delicious food options, making it an ideal outing for families to foster a love of reading.

A complete schedule of all Off the Page events, including local author showcases and creative writing classes, can be found at OffThePageFL.org.

Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources encompasses 10 community library branches, a history center, and a mobile library, committed to providing diverse cultural and educational experiences that support lifelong learning for both residents and visitors.

Whether you’re a seasoned author, an eager reader, or a family on the lookout for literary fun, the 2025 Off the Page Festival has something to offer everyone.

Photo from Off the Page Website