Each fall, the Crozet Book Festival, organized by the beloved local team at Bluebird & Co., brings together book lovers from across Central Virginia to celebrate storytelling, imagination, and the joy of reading. This year, CharlottesvilleFamily is thrilled to present a new feature at Crozet Library designed especially for Cville kids: Crozet Book Fest Jr. Families can now enjoy a dedicated space where young readers meet the authors of their favorite books, discover new stories, and spark a lifelong love of literature.
Whether you have a preschooler who loves picture books or a middle-grade reader ready for their next big adventure, this event will inspire and delight. Come meet authors, enjoy storytimes, crafts, games and lots of literary fun hosted by CharlottesvilleFamily and our CEO, Jennifer Bryerton!
Crozet Book Fest Jr.
Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Crozet Library
9:00 am -10:30 am: Picture Books & Pals
11:00 am – 12:30 pm: So You Want To Be A Writer: Middle Grade Authors
Crozet Book Fest Jr. Author Lineup
| Author | Book Title | Category | Why Kids Will Love It |
| Gabriella Aldeman | Squawk of Spanish | Children’s | Fun introduction to Spanish words and culture |
| Kris Coronado | Lighthouse Ladies | Children’s | Inspiring true stories of women lighthouse keepers |
| Hannah Barnaby | The Pine Cone’s Secret | Children’s | Gentle, nature-inspired story from a Charlottesville author |
| Kate Albus | Nothing Else But Miracles | Middle Grade | World War II era story full of hope and courage |
| Lindsey Leavitt | The Garden Just Beyond | Middle Grade | Magical adventure about family, food, and legacy |
| Alyssa Colman | Where Only Storms Grow | Middle Grade | Historical fiction about resilience and strong family themes |
| Meredith Davis | The Minor Rescue | Middle Grade | Adventure tale full of humor and bravery |
Picture Books & Bookish Activities, from 9 am – 10:30 am
Join us for storytime with the authors! There will also be crafts and activities for young readers.
Squawk of Spanish by Gabriella Aldeman
A playful introduction to Spanish words, Aldeman’s picture book blends humor and cultural pride. Perfect for families who want to nurture bilingual curiosity in their C’ville kids, Squawk of Spanish shows how language connects us all.
The Pine Cone’s Secret by Hannah Barnaby
Local Charlottesville author Hannah Barnaby weaves a gentle, nature-filled tale that helps children see the magic of the outdoors. Barnaby, well-known for her creative storytelling, brings a sense of wonder to young readers and their families.
Lighthouse Ladies by Kris Coronado
Coronado’s book spotlights the often-overlooked women who kept lighthouses shining through storms and dark nights. Kids will be captivated by these true tales of bravery and resilience, perfect for sparking conversations about history and courage.
Bigfoot’s Big Heart by Sarah Glenn Marsh
Bigfoot loses the valentines he made for his mythical pals, and a troop of kids have to help deliver them. A sweet story about friendship and great for kids interested in folklore.
Winslow Whiskerby and the Cheesy Chase by Tammy Tatum
With rhymes full of energy and illustrations bursting with charm, this whimsical tale celebrates creativity, kindness, and the joy of sharing, even when life delivers a surprise twist.
So You Want to Be A Writer? Middle Grade Authors on Storytelling, from 11 am -12:30 pm
This writing workshop, led by a panel of middle grade authors, helps writers of all ages work on the craft of writing middle grade books!
Nothing Else But Miracles by Kate Albus
Set in World War II New York, this touching story of family and resilience is both heartwarming and historically rich. Albus’s book is ideal for tweens who are ready to explore deeper themes of hope, courage, and community.
Where Only Storms Grow by Alyssa Colman
Colman’s story combines family dynamics with atmospheric storytelling, offering readers a tale that is as emotionally rich as it is adventurous. A great pick for kids who love character-driven narratives.
The Minor Rescue by Meredith Davis
This book takes readers on an adventure filled with humor and bravery. Davis has crafted a story perfect for middle graders who are ready for an engaging read that balances excitement with meaningful lessons.
The Garden Just Beyond by Lindsey Leavitt
Leavitt introduces readers to an eccentric family whose magical dinner parties can change people’s emotions and fortunes. A perfect tale for any middle-grade reader who is struggling to find their place in their family’s traditions.
Why Families Shouldn’t Miss Crozet Book Fest Jr.
- Kid-Focused Programming: With authors and books just for children and middle-grade readers, families can be sure their kids are at the center of the fun.
- Local & National Voices: The lineup features authors from Charlottesville and beyond, giving kids a chance to meet real writers and see themselves as future storytellers.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The broader Crozet Book Fest already draws crowds that create a feeling of community, and the Jr. section builds on that with engaging activities and interactive experiences for kids.
- Creative Encouragement: Curious kids (and adults!) can talk to real authors about how they got started writing and what it’s like to publish a book.
Crozet Book Fest (for grown-ups) October 25, 2025
All day, beginning at 9:00 am
Venues: Bluebird & Co, Crozet Library, Bar Botanical, Mudhouse Coffee, and The Yellow Mug
Authors: Featuring local Virginia authors as well as writers from around the country!
Headliners: Alix E. Harrow, Alex Finley, Stacy Willingham, and Sarah Raasch
Panels include talks on cozy mysteries, unreliable narrators, ordinary women doing extraordinary things, writing seminars, author Q&A, bookish trivia, book signings, and more. Find the full schedule of Crozet Book Fest events as well as all authors who will be attending.
Plan Your Visit to the Crozet Book Festival
The Crozet Book Festival takes place in the charming town of Crozet, Virginia, just a short drive from Charlottesville. Families can spend the day enjoying author talks, book signings, and kid-friendly activities. Be sure to bring your little readers to Crozet Book Fest Jr. at the Crozet Library, where imagination and community come together to celebrate stories made just for them.
For more information about family events, check out our CharlottesvilleFamily Fall Festivals Guide and our Guide to Indoor Fun, plus our very own CharlottesvilleFamily Moms Lit Society. For even more literary content, visit our sister project, The Biblio Parent website and Instagram feed.
SUZANNAH SPAAR is the editor of CharlottesvilleFamily Magazine, an accomplished poet, beloved teacher, and mom to two adventurous readers.