Starkville Welcomes New Children’s Book Launch

Starkville MS, September 4, 2025

News Summary

Starkville is abuzz as local author Ginny Walker Shurlds prepares to launch her first children’s book, ‘Mississippi State From A to Z.’ The book signing event will take place at the Book Mart on Main Street on September 5. Additionally, book lovers can look forward to the 11th Annual Mississippi Book Festival a week later, featuring over 50 events and discussions with renowned authors. These events promise to engage readers of all ages and celebrate the literary culture of Mississippi.

Starkville Sparks Excitement with New Children’s Book Launch

Starkville is buzzing with excitement, as local author Ginny Walker Shurlds is set to unveil her first-ever children’s book, “Mississippi State From A to Z.” This charming book promises to be a delightful journey through the wonders of Mississippi State, taking readers from A to Z with engaging illustrations and fun facts. The book signing event is on the calendar for Friday, September 5, from 2 PM to 5 PM at Starkville’s beloved Book Mart on Main Street. If you can’t make it on Friday, don’t worry! Shurlds will also be signing copies on Saturday morning when the store opens at 9:30 AM.

Ready for More Literary Fun?

But that’s not all! Just a week later, the 11th Annual Mississippi Book Festival is slated for Saturday, September 13. Book lovers and authors from across the state are gearing up for this exciting day, which is held at the Mississippi State Capitol and its nearby venues. This year’s festival promises an action-packed agenda with over 50 events, including traditional panels, lively discussions, and even hands-on workshops.

Panels and Workshops to Look Forward To

For those who enjoy thought-provoking discussions, a variety of panels will explore a range of topics. Notable highlights include an engaging discussion on crisis leadership featuring former Governor Haley Barbour, alongside other state leaders reflecting on the 20 years since Hurricane Katrina. Additionally, Southern storytellers, including popular Mississippians, will share insights into their novels set in the South.

If you’re an aspiring writer, you’ll definitely want to check out the workshop led by writer Steve Almond and former Mississippi Poet Laureate Beth Ann Fennelly. They’ll dive into the craft of flash fiction and micro-memoir, helping both new and seasoned writers hone their skills.

Celebrating History and Culture

As part of the festival’s programming, the incredibly impactful Mississippi Humanities Council’s initiative for prison book clubs will feature panels that discuss its influence on individuals within the correctional system. Also, memoirists will come together to discuss the healing power of storytelling, showcasing just how important sharing experiences can be.

Special Guests and Features

Expect to see well-known authors, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Geraldine Brooks and the renowned author Peter Brown. Brooks will engage in intriguing conversation about her works, while Brown joins a panel focusing on children’s literature along with another noteworthy guest curating USM’s de Grummond Children’s Literature Collection.

Don’t miss the humor and insight provided by social media star Landon Bryant and humorist Helen Ellis, who will explore Southern culture during their discussion. Furthermore, panels on Indigenous literature, differing perspectives on historical events, and the enduring legacy of Mississippi’s storytelling will surely resonate with all attendees.

Mark Your Calendars!

With so much going on, there’s something for every book lover. Whether it’s engaging with beloved authors, learning the ropes of writing, or simply enjoying the ambiance of literary celebration, both the book signing for “Mississippi State From A to Z.” and the Mississippi Book Festival are events you won’t want to miss!

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Additional Resources

• Clarion Ledger: Mississippi Book Festival Returns
• Maroon and White Nation: Sawyer Robertson’s Story
• Mount Olive Tribune: Miss North Carolina’s Teen
• Magnolia Tribune: USM’s De Grummond Collection
• Tripzilla: Best Airbnb Stays in Jackson
• Wikipedia: Mississippi Book Festival
• Google Search: Mississippi Book Festival
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Geraldine Brooks
• Google Scholar: Mississippi Children’s Literature
• Google News: Mississippi Book Festival

Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER

The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.