New Orleans Book Festival returns with best-selling thriller novelist headliner

The New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University is returning for its fourth year. The recently released list of speakers includes Connie Chung, Anthony Fauci, Roxane Gay, John Grisham, Doris Kearns Goodwin, and Bob Woodward.

 Over 100 national bestselling and critically acclaimed authors will be at the event, which will be held March 27-29, 2025. Tulane alumni, faculty, and staff will also be featured. 

“The growing influence and reach of the Book Fest allow us to bring more local, regional and national residents – and especially families – to campus to experience the knowledge, expertise and works of today’s leading thinkers, writers and children’s authors,” Tulane President Michael A. Fitts said in a news release. 

Events during the festival will include panel discussions, moderated conversations, lectures, book signings and family programs. Family Day on Saturday, March 29 will be held in the Avron B. Fogelman Arena in the Devlin Fieldhouse, and include readings, entertainment and literary-themed activities. 

Cheryl Landrieu, author and former New Orleans First Lady, and Walter Isaacson, a bestselling biographer and the Leonard A. Lauder Professor of American History and Values in Tulane’s School of Liberal Arts are the co-chairs. Gayle Benson, New Orleans Saints Owner and Pelicans Governor, is an honorary co-chair. 

“This free programming is made possible by book lovers who believe in the power of stories to connect us. Their support ensures that readers of all ages and backgrounds can experience the magic of engaging with authors and each other, right here in one of the world’s greatest cities,” Cheryl Landrieu said in a news release. 

The event is free and open to the public. For registration and additional information visit bookfest.tulane.edu.