With the annual Miami Book Fair approaching, students and teachers at Miami Palmetto Senior High are buzzing with excitement. At the fair, guests can listen to various authors speak about their works, allowing them to explore new pieces of literature and embrace a love for reading.

The 2023 Miami Book Fair commenced Nov. 12, marking the 40 anniversary since its debut. The event lasts until Nov. 19 and is located in Downtown Miami at 300 NE 2 Ave., 33132.

Every year, MPSH English teachers’ anticipation builds at the possibility of hearing their favorite authors dissect beloved novels.

Andrea Spivak

“If I could spend two hours at the book fair, I would attend author talks and look at the book vendors,” Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition teacher Andrea Spivak said. “I would visit local authors Dave Barry and Carl Haissan.”

Spivak teaches primarily seniors in her AP English Literature and Composition course, and those in her class might want to check out her recommendations, as it may provide common interest with your future teacher and expand your literary catalog.

Some of Spivak’s favorite books include “The Plot” by Jean Hanff Korelitz, “Black Cake” by Charmaine Wilkerson and “Demon Copperhead” by Barbara Kingsolver.

“I enjoy books with themes that include societal issues, challenges from social hierarchy, different cultural norms and especially artistry of language,” Spivak said. 

Kimberly Meyers

“I would roam around the street fair on Sunday afternoon to attend Richard Blanco’s event called ‘Poetry for the People.’ I would also attend Sandra Cisneros and Manuel Muñoz: A Conversation,” ninth grade Honors and Pre-AP English I teacher Kimberly Meyers said. “There are plenty of poetry events I think that would be perfect for students.”

Poetry is a topic discussed and covered in English classes and Meyers recommended some great exhibits to visit while at this book fair to broaden one’s knowledge and understanding of this genre.

Included in the freshman year summer reading curriculum is an acclaimed memoir known as “The Glass Castle” by Jeanette Walls. Walls is on the list of many authors who will be featured in this book fair.

Laken Darst

“Being part of the author talks, those are really fun and cool, because the author gets to answer your questions about things like becoming an author or just any general interests on their writings,” English III and Creative Writing teacher Laken Darst said. “An author I like — his name is Mitch Albom – will be featured there. He wrote one of the books I like to read called ‘Tuesday with Morrie.’”

MPSH English teachers have consistently highlighted the event every year, sharing how worthwhile it is to them, and to anyone who attends. No matter if one wishes to become an author in the future, or is searching for new books and author recommendations, the Miami Book Fair serves as a sanctuary for established and new bookworms.