Around the Community | The Filipino American International Book Festival
The Filipino American International Book Festival (FilBookFest) returns this October for its 7th iteration, continuing its legacy as the largest Filipino American literary festival in the U.S. This year's theme, "KAISÁ’T KASAMA: Celebrating Our Diverse Voices and Solidarity," invites the community to join a weekend of literary celebration, cultural pride, and solidarity.
Held during Filipino American History Month, FilBookFest brings together an exciting array of over 60 writers, scholars, and creatives from across the globe, including the U.S, Canada and the Philippines, to the iconic San Francisco Public Library.
Festival attendees will enjoy panel discussions, book signings, and readings featuring a vibrant mix of established and emerging voices. This two-day event is a celebration of storytelling, culture, and the diverse experiences of the Filipino diaspora.
Keynote Speakers and Highlights:
Ninotchka Rosca, renowned novelist and feminist activist, will deliver the festival's opening keynote on Saturday. A leading voice in Filipino literature, Rosca's works have garnered international acclaim for her powerful narratives on politics, identity, and resistance.
Elaine Castillo, author of America Is Not the Heart and How to Read Now: Essays, will deliver Sunday’s keynote on the transformative power of reading. Known for her exploration of immigrant and diasporic experiences, Castillo emphasizes how literature can challenge dominant narratives and reclaim silenced voices.
The festival features a rich lineup of panels, with topics ranging from historical & speculative fiction, poetry, publishing & bookselling, to comics, graphic novels and children's literature. Notable panels include:
—Closer to Liberation anthology showcase: A powerhouse panel/reading featuring Jen Soriano, Robyn Rodriguez, Amanda Solomon Amorao, DJ Kuttin Kandi, Barbara Jane Reyes, and others, highlighting the intersections of Filipino feminism, liberation, and creative expression.
—Fantasy, Mystery, Thriller – Writing Stories That Thrill: Award-winning authors Mia P. Manansala, Cindy Fazzi, Yvette Tan and Victor Manibo explore the craft of suspense and storytelling that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
—We Cook Books: Join culinary authors Claude Tayag, Elizabeth Ann Quirino, Liren Baker and other chef-writers as they discuss the intersection of food and storytelling in Filipino cuisine.
—Poetics of Place & Transformation: Tony Robles, Cynthia Buiza, Jason Magabo Perez, Oscar Peñaranda and other Filipnx poets reflect on how the power of place shapes their work and cultural narratives.
—Inkstorm Readings: A must-see event featuring celebrated authors such as M. Evelina Galang, E.P. Tuazon, Mae Respicio, Bong Redilla and dozens of other writers showcasing newly-released publications.
This year's FilBookFest will also continue its beloved children's programming with engaging storytelling sessions and workshops, offering families a chance to immerse themselves in the richness of Filipino culture and heritage. Two panels on Children’s Literature feature writers such as Christina Newhard, Lynnor Bontigao, Justine Villanueva and Rachelle Abalos, to talk about writing for young readers to cultivate appreciation for many aspects of Filipino culture and to instill a sense of home and belonging.
Closing Event: Writing as a Catalyst for ChangeNinotchka Rosca, Elaine Castillo, Randy Ribay, and Albert Samaha will come together for the festival’s closing panel, focusing on the role of writing in social movements, advocacy, and transformation.
FilBookFest 2024 promises to be an unforgettable weekend of learning, creativity, and community. For the full schedule and lineup of authors, visitfilbookfestival.org