Reviewed by: Patience Itson
7 upcoming author events in Birmingham, including the ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ tour
Reading time: 3 minutes

There’s always something for everyone going on in Birmingham! If you love to read, here are a few author events coming in September, October and November.
“American Coach” by Ivan Maisel
- When: Wednesday, Sept. 24 | 5PM
- Where: Alabama Booksmith, 2626 19th Place S, Homewood
- About the book:
“Award-winning sportswriter Ivan Maisel brings the forgotten legend of Notre Dame head football coach Frank Leahy back to life, based on rare and complete access to Fighting Irish football historical archives and the Leahy family.”
“Potluck Desserts: Joyful Recipes to Share with Pride” by Justin Burke
- When: Thursday, Sept. 25 | 6:30PM
- Where: Thank You Books, 5502 Crestwood Blvd, Unit B, Birmingham
- About the book:
“Complete with charming personal anecdotes, reflections on potlucks and the queer community, and stunning photography of an abundance of good food, Potluck Desserts gives every home baker the tools, confidence, and pride to serve beloved, nostalgic dishes that everyone will love ― colleagues, friends, families and chosen families included.”
“What God Says About You From A to Z” by Kimberly Beck
- When: Saturday, Oct. 4 from 2-5PM
- Where: 47 Park Road, Pleasant Grove, AL
- About the book:
“’What God Says About You from A to Z’ is a heartwarming, faith-filled alphabet book that teaches children their identity in Christ using simple affirmations and biblical truths.”
“A Rebellion of Care” by David Gate
- TICKETED EVENT: Starts at $10
- When: Thursday, Oct. 2 | 6PM
- Where: Little Professor Bookshop, 2738 18th St S, Homewood
- About the book:
“In his debut collection, popular Instagram writer David Gate inspires us to rally for what makes life worth living: creating art as a form of care, living beyond consumer impulse, loving our neighbors (even the odd ones) and more. This book invites readers to ponder the complexities of self, community, love and resilience.”
“Witness to Belief” by Russell Levenson
- When: Saturday, Oct. 11 | 3PM
- Where: Alabama Booksmith, 2626 19th Place South, Homewood
- About the book:
“From a beloved faith leader, a collection of powerful conversations on faith and meaning with twelve public figures who explore the impact of faith in their lives and their success.”
“Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Partypooper” by Jeff Kinney
- TICKETED EVENT: Starts at $22.10
- When: Saturday, Oct. 25 | 6PM
- Where: Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center at Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham
- NOTE: This event does not guarantee or provide a meet-and-greet with Jeff Kinney. Tickets include a pre-signed book.
- About the event:
“’Welcome to The Partypooper Show’ is a laugh-out-loud birthday event where audience members will be selected to join Diary of a Wimpy Kid author (and host!) Jeff Kinney on stage to help save the party spirit! Expect a family-friendly event loaded with surprises, laugh-out-loud moments and a thrilling countdown to celebrate 300 MILLION Wimpy Kid books now sold worldwide!”
“Giving Up is Unforgivable: A Manual for Keeping a Democracy” by Joyce Vance
- When: Wednesday, Nov. 19 | 6PM
- Where: Barnes & Noble, 201 Summit Blvd, Suite 100, Birmingham
- About the book:
“More than just a book, this is an action-oriented guide to saving Democracy. Perfect for all those out there disturbed by the state of American Democracy and intent on stepping up and doing something about it.”
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