On October 21, the 22nd annual Las Vegas Book Festival returns to Downtown's Historic Fifth Street School for a daylong celebration of the written word.

This year’s author lineup features acclaimed authors Terry McMillan, Malcolm Nance, Rebecca Yarros and Ana Reyes. Bestselling novelist McMillan’s latest book, It’s Not All Downhill from Here, touches on womanhood and the determination needed to move forward following loss. Malcolm Nance’s work highlights his firsthand military experience and counter-terrorism consulting. Romance novelist Rebecca Yarros recently journeyed into fantasy writing in her newest release, Fourth Wing. And Ana Reyes presented her gripping debut thriller, The House in the Pines, this past January.

Alongside them is an expansive list of fellow literary minds discussing history, social issues, science fiction, cooking and many other topics. The festival offers a packed schedule of author readings, book signings, a youth poetry competition, writing workshops and more. Nevada authors and poets are especially highlighted along the list of nationally and regionally recognized writers who explore these diverse subjects. And with this range of topics, there’s truly something for everyone who loves to read.

Promoting literacy throughout the Valley is the Las Vegas Book Festival's overall mission. And thanks to the efforts of the City of Las Vegas, The Mayor’s Fund for Las Vegas LIFE and Nevada Humanities, that community mission continues.

LAS VEGAS BOOK FESTIVAL October 21, 10am - 6pm, free. Historic Fifth Street School, lasvegasbookfestival.com.