Book Festival Preview

The Central Wisconsin Book Festival (CWBF) is celebrating its 10th anniversary this September, and we’re thrilled to offer a sneak peek at the 2026 lineup!

Hosted by Marathon County Public Library in partnership with Portage County Public Library, McMillan Memorial Library, and community members, this milestone festival will bring around 20 free, in-person events to central Wisconsin.

Join us September 23–27 in Wausau, Stevens Point, and Wisconsin Rapids to meet incredible talent and celebrate a love of reading. (Some events may fall slightly before or after these dates, depending on author availability.)

Here’s a preview of what’s coming to Wausau:

CWBF Logo

Michael Sajbel, writer, filmmaker, and Wausau native, will discuss his memoir “I Think I’m Goin’ Back,” a reflection on reconnecting with his Wisconsin roots.

"I Think I'm Goin' Back" book cover

Ron Rindo, Wisconsin author, will present “Life, & Death, & Giants,” his acclaimed novel about an 8-foot-tall teenage boy growing up in Lakota Wisconsin with his Amish grandparents.

"Life, & Death, & Giants" book cover

Saeng Douangdara will explore food, culture, and storytelling from “The Lao Kitchen,” a cookbook that features 95+ recipes as well as food history and stories from the author’s family’s experiences as refugees in Wisconsin.

"The Lao Kitchen" book cover

More author announcements and event details are on the way, so keep an eye on our library’s website as well as our Facebook and Instagram.

We can’t wait to celebrate 10 years of books, storytelling, creativity, and community with you!

Margaret P.—Events Coordinator

Marathon County Public Library

Marathon County Public Library (MCPL)

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