New Jersey’s literary community is buzzing this September with a packed calendar of author appearances, book signings, and local publishing milestones. Readers across the state can look forward to meeting bestselling authors, discovering new voices, and engaging in thought-provoking discussions at libraries, bookstores, and cultural venues.
Author Events and Book Signings
On September 16, reality TV star Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino will sign copies of his autobiography, Reality Check: Making the Best of the Situation, at The Shore Store in Seaside Heights. Fans of Sorrentino’s journey from television fame to personal reinvention will have a chance to connect with the star and hear insights from his life story.
Later in the month, several notable authors will appear across the state. On September 20, Cyndie Spiegel will present her book MICROJOYS at the Book Barn in Denville, exploring small moments of happiness in everyday life. That same day, memoirist Desiree Pearl will share excerpts from her book Trash at Within Spirit in Flemington, and Daria Lavelle will sign her newest work, Aftertaste, at Books-A-Million in Rockaway.
Holly Black, acclaimed fantasy author, will be at Barnes & Noble in Clifton on September 23 to discuss and sign her latest novel, Thief of Night. On September 24, beloved children’s author Jane O’Connor and illustrator Robin Preiss Glasser will celebrate the release of Fancy Nancy: Besties for Eternity at Barnes & Noble in Paramus, delighting young readers and families alike. The Beach Haven Public Library will host a discussion with author Margaret Buchholz about her September Book of the Month, Josephine, and Pat Morrissy will read and sign his memoir, Staking Our Claim, at The HUUB in Orange.
The week continues with local author events on September 27 at the Waterford Township Public Library, showcasing up to six writers, and Cranford Public Library, featuring debut author John Armbruster and his book Tailspin. On September 28, Pamela Yula will launch Unveiling Radiance in Somerville, and the month closes with literary luminaries Karen Russell and Jericho Brown reading at Labyrinth Books in Princeton to kick off the Althea Ward Clark W’21 Reading Series.
Library Initiatives and Literary Community Updates
New Jersey’s commitment to literacy and free expression continues to grow. The New Jersey State Library is advancing its Teaching Information Literacy grant project, completing the first round of professional development workshops for educators. In December 2024, the state enacted the Freedom to Read Act, safeguarding school libraries from book removals based on content or an author’s background.
Academic institutions are also keeping New Jersey at the forefront of literary achievement. Rutgers University-Newark professor Rigoberto González received a top poetry honor for lifetime achievement, while Rutgers publishes the respected literary journals Raritan and StoryQuarterly. Ramapo College releases the student-run magazine Trillium, and Princeton University maintains Nassau Lit, the nation’s second oldest literary magazine. Online and independent literary publications thrive as well, including Jersey Devil Press, which focuses on speculative fiction and poetry, and the South Jersey Culture & History Center, which highlights works about the region. Local independent publishers such as ComteQ Communications LLC in Margate City and Brian First Publishing in Maplewood continue to support emerging and established authors.
Spotlight: Kiril Kristoff Releases ‘Crossing Borders of Time’
Award-winning author Kiril Kristoff, an American-Bulgarian writer with 35 years of residence in suburban New Jersey, has released his latest historical fiction novel, Crossing Borders of Time. Drawing on his personal immigrant experience and family heritage, Kristoff weaves a narrative exploring resilience, spiritual legacy, and generational identity. Alongside his writing, Kristoff maintains a career as a licensed physical therapist and acupuncturist. His newest book has already garnered international attention, cementing his place among New Jersey’s notable contemporary authors.
With September bringing a flurry of readings, signings, and literary discussions, New Jersey continues to showcase a vibrant cultural and literary ecosystem. From family-friendly events to adult literary series, residents and visitors alike can discover new works, connect with authors, and immerse themselves in the state’s thriving book scene. For ongoing updates on author events, literary news, and cultural happenings, visit Explore New Jersey’s Entertainment section
