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 “Buff Is Overstuffed” by Carrie Paine. 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.
“Buff Is Overstuffed” by Carrie Paine, illustrated by Monica Fohn, is a heartwarming children’s picture book that follows a young bear named Buff as he experiences an important milestone: his very first day at school. Buff is a large, four-year-old bear who is described as being “eight years big,” and although he is filled with kindness and love, his unusual appearance causes some of the other animals to see him differently. Through Buff’s experiences with his new schoolmates, the story introduces young readers to important ideas about kindness, acceptance, friendship, self-confidence, and treating others with respect.
At the center of the story is a simple but meaningful lesson about the way people respond to those who appear different from themselves. Buff arrives at school excited about meeting new friends, but his excitement is challenged when some of the other creatures react negatively to his appearance. With encouragement from his mother and guidance from the other characters he encounters, Buff learns that being different does not make him less worthy of friendship. The book ultimately uses Buff’s experience to introduce children to the Golden Rule and to encourage them to recognize the value and uniqueness of every individual.
One of the strongest qualities of Buff Is Overstuffed is its ability to address the sensitive subject of being treated differently through a story that children can easily understand. Buff’s first day at school is an experience many young readers can relate to, particularly the excitement and uncertainty of entering a new environment and hoping to make friends. By placing these familiar emotions within an animal-centered story, Paine creates an approachable way for children to think about how their actions can affect someone who feels left out.
The book is also valuable because it encourages children to look beyond appearances. Buff’s size initially influences the way his classmates perceive him, but the story gradually shows that outward differences do not tell us everything about another person. Buff is kind, loving, and eager to make friends, qualities that become much more important as the characters learn more about one another. This can encourage young readers to question quick judgments and understand why taking the time to know someone can lead to genuine friendship.
Ultimately, Buff Is Overstuffed is a warm and encouraging story about finding acceptance while learning to accept others. Buff’s journey from an uncertain first day at school toward friendship and greater confidence gives young readers an uplifting example of how kindness can change the way people see one another. With Carrie Paine’s positive message and Monica Fohn’s colorful illustrations, the book offers families and educators a meaningful way to introduce children to the importance of empathy, respect, inclusion, and celebrating what makes each person unique.
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.