Dig into live book events, the latest appearances by authors, and more with our roundup of 12 book and literary events happening in Houston in August 2026.
Riley Sager’s The Unknown is an eerie, wild ride across timelines, as the cast of a movie show up on a remote island, making a film about the 1926 disappearance of five women. The action—and creepiness factor—amp up when they start disappearing the same way the original women did. If you like your summer reads laced with gothic horror, this is your read. You can hear Sager talk about it this month.
I love a good book sale, and there are two this month. One’s at CityPlace, offering a curated variety of book titles for readers of all ages. The other is near Sunnyside, where you can meet indie authors and shop for books and book-themed merch.
I also love when authors make appearances at libraries, like Phil Oakley is doing this month. Libraries are important. ‘Nuff said. History buffs will want to check out an event over at the Holocaust Museum. A United Airlines captain’s memoir explores themes of resilience and purpose in the wake of 9/11.
As of my deadline, many Houston bookstores listed on Bookstore Romance Day’s website had yet to finalize their activities for the national event this month. But read below to see what Blue Willow Bookshop and Good on Paper Books have planned.
Read on for more.
Go celebrate books, Houston!
Top 12 Book & Author Events in Houston: August 2026
Author Phil Oakley at Heights Neighborhood Library | Saturday, August 1 | FREE – The author, journalist and former director of the Louisiana Film Commission discusses his latest book, Austin Sunrise, the latest in his sweeping Oakley series. The novel follows the Oakley family from New Mexico to Texas during Prohibition, exploring themes of loyalty, resilience and ambition. 2pm. Learn more.
Author Andrea Eames at Village Books | Monday, August 3 | FREE with RSVP – A woman with amnesia—and magical hair—searches for her lost memories while navigating a web of royal intrigue, bone magic and secret monasteries in Eames’ novel, A Tangled Magic. She’ll discuss and sign. 6:30pm. RSVP.
Murder By The Book: Author Riley Sager at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church | Monday, August 3 – The bestselling thriller writer talks about his life and work, and his latest novel, The Unknown, with Crime by the Book’s Abby Dunn. Tickets include a copy of the book. $38. 7pm. Get tickets.
Cleared for Takeoff Book Launch at The Lone Star Flight Museum | Tuesday, August 4 – United Airlines captain Nia Gilliam discusses her memoir of finding purpose and resilience following the harrowing events of 9/11. Light appetizers and cocktails begin the evening, followed by a discussion between Gilliam and Missouri City Mayor Pro Tem Lynn Clouser. Admission includes a copy of the book. $60; $55 members. 6pm. Learn more.
Brick Lit Legos & Audio Books Party at Kindred Stories | Wednesday, August 12 – Bring a Lego set to work on—or purchase one from the store—then settle in with your current audio book for this evening of building. There are refreshments, new people to meet and great vibes. $10+. 6:30pm. Reserve.
Bookstore Romance Day Across Houston | Saturday, August 15 – Celebrate all things love at indie stores all over the city. Blue Willow Bookshop has 15% off select pre-orders and you can help others find their new fave. At Good on Paper, you’ll find special editions, freebies and romantic activities. Places, prices, and times vary. Learn more.
Good Books in the Woods Popup at CityPlace | Saturday, August 22 | FREE – The brick-and-mortar bookshop known for stocking used, new and rare books opens a pop-up shop with more than 300 curated titles for you to find your next beach read, family favorite or hidden gem. 10am to 2pm. Learn more.
Bookish Realms Market at The Media Block | Saturday, August 22 | FREE with RSVP – Meet indie authors, celebrate book creators and shop for bookish-themed merchandise at this all-ages event near Sunnyside. 10am to 4pm. Learn more.
Author Tim Sullivan at Murder By The Book | Wednesday, August 26 | FREE – Houston is one of only four cities on the British author’s U.S. book tour. He’ll discuss and sign the latest in his globally popular DS George Cross mystery series, The Tailor. As Cross pulls at the threads of clues in the death of a tailor, things are not at all what they seem. 6:30pm. Learn more.
Author Pamela Toler at Holocaust Museum Houston | Thursday, August 27 – The writer and historian discusses her book, The Dragon from Chicago: The Untold Story of an American Reporter in Nazi Germany. It’s the story of Sigrid Schultz , a foreign correspondent for The Chicago Tribune, who witnessed Hitler’s rise to power and was one of the first reporters—male or female—to warn American readers of the growing dangers of Nazism. Suggested donation: $5+. 6:30pm. Learn more.
100th Birthday Celebration: A Day of Vintage Library & Book Fun at the Julia Ideson Building | Saturday, August 22 | FREE – Enjoy a day of all-ages fun with crafts, special exhibits and fashions, a screening of The Julia Ideson Building—Celebrating 100 Years documentary, story times, and more. Noon to 4pm. Learn more.
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