John Grisham, Alton Brown and Chuck Schumer to headline MJCCA book festival

The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) announced on Aug. 27 the lineup for its 34th Annual Book Festival running from Oct. 22 –16 with a roster that will showcase bestselling authors, political leaders, cultural icons, and emerging voices.

This year’s festival, according to an announcement made by the MJCCA, promises to be the most dynamic yet, featuring exclusive author conversations, interactive Q&A sessions, book signings, and unique culinary experiences.

“This year’s festival brings together names that readers already cherish alongside incredible first-time authors whose stories are waiting to be discovered,” said Book Festival Co-Chair Tracey Grant. “It’s a lineup that balances household names with fresh voices—setting the stage for unforgettable conversations, powerful ideas, and moments that will stay with our community long after the festival ends.”

Headlining authors include John Grisham who on Oct. 22 will make one of only two national appearances in 2025, discussing his latest work “The Widow” — his first venture into the whodunit genre.

On Nov. 2, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) will discuss “Antisemitism in America: A Warning,” offering a personal and urgent examination of rising antisemitism in the United States.

Emmy Award-winning chef and television personality Alton Brown debuts his essay collection “Food for Thought,” blending culinary expertise with behind-the-scenes entertainment stories with a talk on Nov. 10.

On Nov. 1, former Ohio Governor John Kasich explores the intersection of faith and civic engagement in “Heaven Help Us.”

The festival will close with Dr. Sanjay Gupta on Nov. 16 discussing “It Doesn’t Have to Hurt: Your Smart Guide to a Pain-Free Life” at 7 p.m.

The festival also features timely and compelling voices, including former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen with “The Sword of Freedom” (Nov. 8), White House speechwriter Sarah Hurwitz discussing Jewish identity in “As a Jew” (Nov. 5), and released Israeli hostage Eli Sharabi sharing his survival story in “Hostage” (Oct. 11).

True to the MJCCA’s tradition of combining literature with experiential programming, this year’s festival offers unique culinary events, the release said.

The festival’s Debut Fiction Panel on Nov. 4 spotlights three emerging authors poised to make their mark: Laura Dickerman (“Hot Desk”), Catherine Mathis (“Ines: Queen of Portugal”), and Brian Schaefer (“Town & Country”).

“These debut authors bring fresh perspectives and bold storytelling,” Grant said. “We want audiences to leave with new favorites they’ll follow for years to come.”

Last year, the festival featured an array of impressive speakers – from a former medical advisor to numerous U.S. presidents to an actor who was part of a beloved television comedy series.

Topping the 2024 list of speakers was Dr. Anthony Fauci, who acted as the chief medical advisor to seven presidents for 38 of his 54-year tenure with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. His book, “On Call: A Doctor’s Journey in Public Service,” was a New York Times #1 bestseller. 

Event Details:

Dates: Oct. 22– Nov. 16 (with select prologue events beginning Oct. 11)
Location: Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody, GA.
Tickets: On sale September 10

For complete programming details, scheduling information, and ticket purchases, visit the official MJCCA Book Festival event page.

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