There is a certain kind of excitement that can only be found at a book festival. Readers wander from one title to another, authors share the stories behind their work, and unexpected discoveries happen simply because someone decided to pick up a book. That sense of curiosity and connection is what makes the Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors 2026 such a special literary gathering. Taking place in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the festival brings together people who share a love for books while creating opportunities to discover new authors, explore different perspectives, and celebrate the many stories that bring communities together.
The Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors 2026 concluded last September 26–27, 2026, marking the festival’s 21st anniversary. The main celebration transforms downtown Winston-Salem into a lively destination for readers, featuring author panels, readings, book signings, exhibitors, vendors, food trucks, and activities for visitors of all ages. The festival also welcomes young readers with a dedicated children’s area where children can participate in activities and receive free books, making the celebration an experience that families can enjoy together.
Literary festivals such as Bookmarks offer something that cannot always be found through a simple visit to a bookstore or an online search. They create a space where readers can encounter books in a more personal way. A panel can provide insight into an author’s creative process, a book signing can turn a title into a memorable keepsake, and an unexpected conversation can lead a reader toward a story they might never have discovered otherwise. It is this combination of literature and human connection that continues to make book festivals valuable to the publishing community.
Among the titles proudly represented by Citi of Books at this year’s festival is “The New Testament Explained KJV: Matthew Through Acts” by George R. Jensen Jr. The book offers readers another distinctive voice to discover and reflects the variety of stories and perspectives found within our publishing community. We are excited to introduce this work to the festival audience and give visitors the opportunity to explore the author’s ideas, experiences, and creative vision through the pages of the book.
“The New Testament Explained KJV: Matthew Through Acts” by George R. Jensen Jr. is the first volume of a comprehensive two-volume Bible commentary and study guide designed to help readers engage more deeply with the New Testament while remaining grounded in the language of the King James Version. Covering the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, as well as the Acts of the Apostles, the book provides a chapter-by-chapter exploration of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the birth and growth of the early Christian Church.
The book combines the complete King James Version text with accessible explanations and spiritual insights. Each chapter includes commentary intended to clarify biblical passages, seven key themes of spiritual significance, practical applications for Christian living, and concluding summaries that help readers reflect on the importance of each biblical book. The result is a resource designed for a wide audience, including new believers, longtime Christians, pastors, teachers, and Bible-study groups.
George R. Jensen Jr. is an author, entrepreneur, former technology CEO, and television producer. Jensen’s professional experience spans business, technology, media, and television production. Alongside his professional career, he devoted years to the careful study of Scripture, eventually developing his ideas into a comprehensive two-volume commentary and study guide covering every chapter of the New Testament.
Jensen wrote The New Testament Explained: King James Version with the goal of making God’s Word more understandable and accessible while preserving the beauty, accuracy, and timeless language of the King James Version. His work is intended to serve both new believers and lifelong students of the Bible, offering clear explanations while encouraging readers to explore the historical background, spiritual meaning, and practical application of Scripture.
The book is valuable because of its broad usefulness. A new Christian can use it as an introduction to the New Testament, while experienced believers may use it as a structured companion for deeper study. Pastors and teachers may also find its organization helpful for preparing lessons or leading discussions. Because the book covers every chapter from Matthew through Acts, it provides a substantial resource for individuals and groups who want to study these biblical books in sequence rather than relying on isolated passages.
Ultimately, New Testament Explained KJV: Matthew Through Acts is a compelling read for Christians who want to deepen their understanding of Scripture while maintaining a close connection with the King James Version. George R. Jensen Jr. combines biblical text with explanation and practical reflection, creating a resource intended to help readers understand the message of Jesus Christ and the story of the early Church more clearly. For anyone seeking a detailed and organized companion for studying Matthew through Acts, this volume offers an inviting starting point.
Citi of Books at Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors 2026 — celebrating authors, discovering new perspectives, and giving more stories the opportunity to find their readers.