Books By the Bay Returns to Pensacola With Nationally Acclaimed Authors
Pensacola readers and writers have something special to look forward to this spring as Books By the Bay, Northwest Florida’s largest literary festival, returns for its third year—this time with a brand‑new waterfront setting. The free, day‑long event will take place Saturday, March 28, at Bayview Park on Bayou Texar.
Formerly held indoors, the festival’s move outdoors reflects its growing popularity and expanding vision. “Books By the Bay is now truly on the bay,” said Tonya Dalhaus, event director for the festival. “We’re thrilled to showcase our authors in such a beautiful waterfront setting—this year they can enjoy the view without worrying about the weather.”
Featured Guest: Bestselling Author Kyla Zhao
Headlining this year’s event is Kyla Zhao, a bestselling author who has already published three novels with Penguin Random House by the age of 26. A native of Singapore now living in California, Zhao has been featured in major publications including Forbes, Vogue, and Cosmopolitan, and has appeared on “Good Morning America” and national network broadcasts.
Zhao’s 2024 novel Let the Best Player Win has gained worldwide attention among middle‑grade readers and chess players of all ages. A former competitive chess player herself, Zhao explores themes of gender stereotypes, anxiety, and perseverance within the high‑pressure world of competitive chess. She also writes across multiple genres, including Asian American fiction, women’s fiction, romantic comedy, and coming‑of‑age stories. Her other novels include Valley Verified (2023) and The Fraud Squad (2024). [
A Festival With Growing National Reach
According to Tonya Dalhaus, the festival’s reputation is spreading well beyond the Gulf Coast. “It’s exciting to see Books By the Bay gaining national attention,” she said. “Kyla Zhao contacted us wanting to take part, and even Highlights magazine sent children’s scavenger hunt games after hearing about the festival.” Authors will be traveling from across the country—from California to Tennessee—alongside a strong lineup of local writers who reflect the region’s cultural diversity.
Opportunities for Local Authors and Families
This year’s festival will feature an expanded Author’s Row inside the Bayview Community Center, where area authors can sell their books in three‑hour increments. Authors may also apply to give readings on stage in the adjacent senior center. More than 50 “early bird” authors have already secured space, though additional spots remain available.
Beyond book sales and readings, attendees can enjoy a full schedule of activities, including children’s programming, a haiku slam, a Book Club Challenge, and performances by local community groups—making the event welcoming for readers of all ages.
Powered by Volunteers and Community Support
Books By the Bay is sponsored by Emerald Coast Writers, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The festival is volunteer‑driven, and organizers are actively seeking additional volunteers and sponsors to help make this year’s event the best one yet.
Those interested in exhibiting, volunteering, or sponsoring can visit booksbythebay.info or email booksbythebayfest@gmail.com for more information.