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 “No Means Know” by Michele Coakley. 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.
Michele Coakley is a wife, mother, and grandmother based in North Carolina who brings warmth and enthusiasm to her storytelling. With a love for family life, sports, boating, and swimming, she draws inspiration from everyday experiences and the natural curiosity of children. Through her writing, Coakley encourages young readers to ask questions, explore the world around them, and find joy in discovering how things work.
“Every discovery often begins with someone saying, “No… actually.” That playful idea lies at the heart of “No Means Know” by Michele Coakley, a delightful children’s book now being introduced to the global publishing community at the London Book Fair. Among the many titles on display, this bright and engaging story stands out for its imaginative approach to learning and discovery. For families, educators, and young readers exploring the fair’s selection of children’s literature, No Means Know offers an uplifting story that celebrates curiosity and the joy of figuring things out.
At the center of the story is Julian, a lively and imaginative young storyteller who loves asking questions about the world around him. Sometimes his guesses aren’t quite right, leading to moments where someone gently corrects him with a cheerful “No, actually…” Instead of feeling discouraged, Julian sees these moments as opportunities to learn something new and exciting.
As Julian’s curiosity takes him from the mysteries of the ocean to the wonders of outer space, each correction becomes a stepping stone toward deeper knowledge. With every discovery, he gains confidence and realizes that learning is not about always being right—it’s about asking questions, exploring ideas, and staying open to new possibilities.
In a world where children are often taught to avoid mistakes, this story flips that idea on its head — showing that saying “no” to a first guess is really just the start of knowing something new. Michele Coakley’s bright and encouraging tale invites young readers to keep asking, keep learning, and always find joy in discovery.
For young readers who love stories filled with curiosity, imagination, and discovery, “No Means Know” by Michele Coakley is certainly a book worth exploring—especially as it is introduced to the global publishing community at the 2026 London Book Fair. It’s the kind of story that encourages children to see mistakes not as failures but as exciting steps toward understanding. If you enjoy children’s books that turn learning into an adventure and inspire kids to keep asking questions, this cheerful tale may quickly become a favorite for families and classrooms alike.
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.