2009 Fairgoer's Guide
Welcome to the 26th Miami Book Fair. It’s going to be great!
We have Nobel laureates! Rock stars! Celebrity chefs! And the most buzzed about novelists, revered poets and astute political commentators. Hundreds of authors on just about every topic—a book for every reader, I like to say.
Like most organizations and people around the country, our beloved Fair has experienced some financial setbacks this year. But rather than get discouraged we got creative. With the support of book publishers in the U.S and abroad, we’ve maintained the depth and breadth of our author presentations. And with the support of cultural partners, local restaurants and beverage companies, we’ve brought back Twilight Tastings, six evenings of delicious tid bits and refreshing cocktails, overlooking downtown Miami and the bay. A delightful prelude to our evening sessions.
The Comix Galaxy is back. And it’s expanding! We’ve partnered with New York City’s Kids’ Comic Con and they’re bringing their road show to the Fair—three days of workshops on making comics for kids and teens. Children’s Alley features two stages of storytelling, theatre and dance, and as usual, booksellers and publishers will take up residence in hundreds of booths along the streets; selling every kind of tome, from rare first editions to $1 bargains.
Please note that a couple of venues we’ve traditionally used are unavailable this year due to renovation, but we’ve raised temporary auditoriums where we will feature author presentations. Look for them on Third Street and First Avenue.
We know you will love this Fair as you’ve loved the last 25! We’ve loved making it happen. We’re managing the challenges, and building for the future.

Alina Interián
Executive Director
Florida Center for the Literary Arts
at Miami Dade College
Event Highlights
Sunday, Nov. 8 - Sunday, Nov. 15
Each year more than 300 authors from around the globe come to Miami to take part in the fair’s international Festival of Authors. Writers come from all over the United States, and in previous years, the Fair has welcomed authors from countries like Argentina, Bosnia, Brazil, Canada, China, Cuba, Dominican Republic, England, France, Finland, Guatemala, Haiti, Hong Kong, Israel, Ireland, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Philippines, Russia, South Africa, Spain, Taiwan, Trinidad, and other nations.
Friday, Nov. 13 - Sunday, Nov. 15
The Street Fair is the culminating literary extravaganza of the fair. This three-day outdoor festival gathers hundreds of booksellers and exhibitors, offering fairgoers the opportunity to browse new and favorite titles from major publishing houses, small presses, scholarly imprints and foreign publishers. Millions of books in multiple languages, book signings and musical entertainment complete the vibrant atmosphere of the Street Fair.
Friday, Nov. 13 - Sunday, Nov. 15
Children’s Alley is an amazing literary adventure for young readers, featuring storytelling, puppets, theatrical performances, educational games, and hands-on activities.
Friday, Nov. 13 - Sunday, Nov. 15
Launched in 2008, the Comix Galaxy is a program on graphic novels and the comics world that celebrates their place in our country’s literary life, as well as their recent rise in popularity and integration into mainstream literature, culture and even education.
Sunday, Nov. 8 - Friday, Nov. 13
Before the evening presentations, sample cuisine from some of Miami’s fine eateries while enjoying panoramic views of the city at sundown. Hors d’oeuvres and a complimentary cocktail, plus a cash bar.